With more than a decade and a half of experience, Suzanne B. Cichon has established a successful career in the insurance industry. Since 2009, she has served as a claim director at Chubb Insurance, where she oversees new insurance claims, determines coverage, and communicates with insured parties. Her responsibilities also include handling trial reports, preparing coverage letters, setting reserves, and managing matters related to internal controls. Prior to her current role, she held positions at Chubb Insurance as a claim examiner and claim specialist. Her journey into the insurance sector began after a career in law enforcement, where she held a top-secret security clearance and conducted background investigations for the federal government. This experience provided her with investigative skills that have been instrumental in her insurance roles.
Additionally, Ms. Cichon gained valuable legal experience as a legal assistant and paralegal at various insurance defense firms. In these roles, she managed case files, filed pleadings, and developed a deep understanding of the legal processes integral to insurance claims. She laid a strong academic foundation, earning a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the University of New Haven in 1999 and a bachelor’s degree in legal studies from the University of Hartford in 2005. She also earned an American Bar Association-approved paralegal certification in 2003.
Throughout her career, Ms. Cichon has been recognized for her dedication and contributions to the insurance industry. She was honored with Chubb’s SOAR Award consecutively from 2010 to 2012, reflecting her excellence and commitment to the company’s success. One of her proudest achievements is her work in developing financial alliances, encompassing employment practices liability, directors and officers liability, cyber, and homeowners associations across the country. She facilitates monthly underwriting calls and addresses complex issues related to submissions, insureds, and coverage.
Reflecting on her path, Ms. Cichon finds fulfillment in continuously learning and adapting to diverse challenges in her role. Her background in investigative work, honed during her earlier career in law enforcement, has been a valuable asset, enabling her to approach claims with precision and analytical insight. Moreover, she attributes her success to her independence, determination, and perseverance. While attending college full-time, she worked multiple jobs and commuted, overcoming significant challenges to earn multiple degrees despite uncertainty about her career path. Growing up with learning disabilities, she developed a unique approach to learning that ultimately led to her success.
Initially unsure about the insurance industry, Ms. Cichon discovered a supportive environment as a claim examiner, where she grew to appreciate the stability and opportunities for growth. Health challenges related to her invisible disabilities prompted her to seek a remote position, and she values the flexibility her current role provides, enabling her to work efficiently through virtual platforms. She also recognizes the importance of resilience and finding a career aligned with her needs and aspirations. In advising aspiring professionals, she emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and striving for growth. She highlights the value of teamwork, encouraging individuals to support their colleagues and ensure their voices are heard.
Looking ahead, Ms. Cichon aspires to advance her career by progressing from senior claim director to assistant vice president at Chubb Insurance. She seeks greater autonomy in her role while continuing to provide effective support to her team. She is also interested in exploring special investigations, such as kidnap and ransom cases, or transitioning into the financial aspects of catastrophe work within the company. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys spending time with her dog and pursuing hobbies like nature exploration, decorating, and crafting. A native of Bristol, she values being remembered as a dedicated and supportive colleague who consistently excelled in her work.