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
Jeff Rodriguez joined Brown & Riding in 2005 as chief operating officer, was named president in 2007, and became chief executive officer in 2010. Under his leadership, the firm has experienced remarkable growth, both organically and through strategic acquisitions, earning widespread recognition at local, regional, and national levels.
Today, Brown & Riding is one of the largest wholesale insurance brokerage firms in the United States and the largest fully independent, privately owned E&S wholesale broker in the country.
Throughout his career, Rodriguez has been a strong advocate for programs that create opportunities for individuals who are eager to learn and work hard, particularly those from underserved backgrounds. He played a pivotal role in launching the Center for Insurance Transformation (CIT) at The University of Mississippi, an initiative that collaborates with industry leaders and The Council of Insurance Agents and Brokers (CIAB) to provide students from diverse backgrounds with career pathways in risk management and insurance. The CIT also offers a unique, no-cost certificate program to students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
Rodriguez holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from San Jose State University and an MBA from St. Mary’s College in Moraga, California, along with several industry certifications. He is a frequent speaker at regional and national industry events, sharing his insights and expertise.
Prior to his career in insurance, he served three years of active duty in the US Army as part of the military police corps, with both domestic and foreign assignments.
901 Main Street, Suite 3650, Dallas, TX 75202
972.777.4044
dbeck@astrusins.com
linkedin.com/in/danette-beck-882767a
https://www.brownandriding.com
Jeff Rodriguez
President and Chief Executive Officer
Brown & Riding
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“You can’t control the outcome, but you can always control what version of you turns up every day”
Adam Rakowski,
Ortus Financial
1989
2005
2007
2010
2022
Began insurance career
1989
Joined Brown & Riding as Chief Operating Officer
2005
Named President of Brown & Riding
2007
Named Chief Executive Officer of Brown & Riding
2010
Spearheaded initiative to launch The Center for Insurance Transformation
2022
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.