Profile
“Being true to who we are is key; we are purely a referral-based business. There is zero marketing or advertising”
Adam Rakowski,
Ortus Financial
Joining Astrus in August 2024, Danette Beck has already made her presence felt at the firm. As executive vice president, national director of broker operations, her responsibilities include:
140 Broadway, 51st Floor, New York, NY 10005
914 427 7062
dbeck@astrusins.com
linkedin.com/in/danette-beck-882767a
astrusins.com
Danette Beck
EVP, Managing Director, National Director of Broker Operations Astrus Insurance Solutions
Read on
Special Report
Home
Bio
Milestones
Profile
Read on
Special Report
Home
Bio
Milestones
Read on
Special Report
Home
Bio
Milestones
“You can’t control the outcome, but you can always control what version of you turns up every day”
Adam Rakowski,
Ortus Financial
1996–2010
2010–2018
2022–2024
2024–present
2024
Senior Vice President at Aon
July 2008–present: Board Member Blind Children’s Center
1996– 2010
July 2010–June 2018: Managing Director, West Zone Construction Practice Leader at Marsh
May 2013–June 2018: Managing Director, West Zone Construction Practice Leader at Marsh
2010– 2018
April 2022–August 2024: Head of Industry Verticals and National Construction Practice Leader at USI Insurance Services
June 2018–May 2022: National Construction Practice Leader at USI Insurance Services
July 2022–present: Terry Dean’s Advisory Council (TDAC) and Terry Alumni Board Emeritus Member, University of Georgia - Terry College of Business
July 2022–present: Fraternity Director, Alumnae Development at Delta Gamma
2022– 2024
August 2024–present: Board Member at Peloton for Business
August 2024–present: EVP, National Director of Broker Operations at Astrus Insurance Solutions
2024– presentsent
Appointed as Brown & Riding's Executive Director of Specialty
2024
Milestones
Milestones
ELITE WOMEN 2024 JUDGE
overseeing and managing relationships with retail brokers
developing and implementing strategies to optimize broker operations
collaborating with internal teams to streamline processes and improve service delivery to brokers
analyzing market trends to identify opportunities for growth and improvement
monitoring performance metrics to track the success of broker operations
One of the biggest challenges she faces is balancing the need to grow and optimize broker relationships with the often-complex demands of the construction insurance industry. Brokers can have varying levels of familiarity with Astrus’s offerings, and it can be challenging to bring them up to speed while meeting their unique needs. To address this, Beck focuses on proactive communication and continuous education.
“I collaborate closely with internal Astrus teams to create streamlined, transparent processes that reduce friction in broker interactions,” she says. “I regularly review performance metrics and market trends to adapt strategies in real time, ensuring that brokers have the most relevant tools and information at their disposal.”
This approach not only strengthens broker relationships but also positions Astrus to capture growth opportunities efficiently.
A proud alumna of the University of Georgia’s (UGA) Terry College of Business with a degree in Risk Management, Beck brings 30 years of experience to her career. She began her journey with Sedgwick James after graduating from UGA, then advanced through roles at Aon and Marsh before joining USI Insurance Services in 2018. In 2024, she transitioned from USI to her current role at Astrus.
Her biggest professional achievement has been establishing herself as a female leader in the male-dominated insurance industry.
“Over the years, I’ve been honored to receive recognition from several respected organizations for my commitment to mentoring young professionals, particularly women, who aspire to enter this field,” she reveals. “This is especially meaningful to me because supporting the next generation, by helping them navigate challenges and fostering their confidence, aligns deeply with my passion for creating spaces for them.”
Over the past 12 months, the insurance industry has been characterized by a need for agility and innovation to address economic pressures, evolving risks and changing customer expectations. Insurers are adapting by embracing technology and focusing on customer-centric solutions to navigate these complexities.
“With the industry facing unprecedented challenges, I’ve made it a priority to foster collaboration and openness to innovative solutions. I’ve worked to encourage transparency and proactive communication with brokers and clients alike, ensuring they feel equipped to tackle emerging risks ensuring I help shape a more resilient, responsive industry. I remain committed to leaving a positive, lasting impact on those I work with and the industry,” she says.
This motivation comes from Beck’s deep love for the work she does every day with a commitment to modeling the qualities of a true servant leader.
She explains, “I believe in showing up each day, striving to be even one percent better than the day before. I’m mindful that others are watching, and I want to set an example by being the best version of myself, not only for my family but also for my colleagues and business partners. This mindset drives me to maintain high standards and bring genuine dedication to everything I do.”
Outside of insurance, Beck is a board member of the Los Angeles Blind Children’s Center, Peloton for Business Advisory Board, Delta Gamma, and her alma mater’s Terry Dean’s Advisory Council and The Terry College Emeritus Alumni Board.