Dea Malollari joined PURE in 2022 as our Chief Actuary and expanded her role to Chief Risk Officer in 2024. She is responsible for leading a team of dedicated actuaries and modelers crucial to PURE's ongoing operations and safe expansion. Her role involves implementing a structured and strategic approach to understanding, managing and mitigating enterprise risks. She also serves as the Chair for PURE's Risk Steering committee. Read through our interview with Dea to get to know her and learn more about what she brings to PURE.

Where were you prior to joining PURE and what brought you to PURE?
I studied Actuarial Science and Statistics at Florida State University. After college, I worked at Liberty Mutual for 14 years, gaining experience in various actuarial roles and products, including US and International markets. I then led the actuarial function for North America and Brazil at Allianz Partners, focusing on Travel and Assistance products. I joined PURE for its commitment to innovation and excellence in serving its membership. Serving as Chief Actuary and Chief Risk Officer has enabled me to apply my diverse expertise to shape PURE’s strategy and strengthen its risk management practices.

What is your favorite part of your job?
My role as the CRO enables me to interact with every department within PURE; I get to learn about the risks and challenges each team faces, which in turn also enhances my effectiveness as Chief Actuary. I find the conversations with my team and colleagues across the organization very rewarding, not only for the collaborative environment they create but also for the wealth of knowledge and perspectives that enrich my strategic thinking and decision-making.

When you think about risks facing the insurance industry at large, what worries you the most?
The risks beyond our control are the ones that concern me the most. Climate change stands out as a major challenge, bringing unpredictable and far-reaching impacts to the entire industry. Similarly, while I’ve embraced AI as an early adopter, its rapid evolution is a double-edged sword. The opportunities for innovation and efficiency are enormous, but the risks associated with its widespread adoption remain largely uncharted. AI’s long-term impact on our industry and society as a whole remain unknown.

What advice would you give your younger self embarking on a career in insurance, knowing what you know today?
I would tell my younger self to embrace continuous learning and to stay curious. The insurance industry is constantly evolving, and those who are adaptable and willing to learn will thrive. Building strong relationships and networking within the industry is also crucial—these connections can provide support, opportunities and insights throughout your career. Lastly, take calculated risks and do not be afraid of failure, as these experiences often lead to the most significant growth and learning.