Jess Louis: Lighting the Way for Innovation with Heart and Hustle 

If you've ever met Jess Louis, you know brilliance doesn't have to be loud to make waves. She is one of those rare leaders who show up with equal parts clarity, compassion, and conviction—and she's rewriting the rulebook on what it means to lead innovation in the insurance space. 

Last year, we celebrated Jess for her role as Program Director at the Global Insurance Accelerator (GIA), where she seamlessly bridges the gap between insurtech disruption and real-world implementation. This year, we’re diving deeper into her evolution, growth, and the intentional energy she continues to bring to the industry. 

And let’s be clear—Jess isn’t just leading programs. She’s cultivating a movement of innovation and possibility. 

Feedback as Fuel: Transforming Input into Impact 

One of Jess's biggest takeaways this past year? Feedback is a gift—but only if we truly listen. 

"This is the third program I've run for the GIA, so I've had the chance to really shape the structure," Jess shares. "But I've realized that no matter how often you do something, growth comes from being open to different perspectives." 

For Jess, this means not just asking for feedback but creating a culture where people feel safe to share honestly. She understands that vulnerability unlocks innovation. When founders, mentors, and colleagues see their feedback put into motion, it validates their voices and builds stronger engagement. 

"People want to know their input matters," she says. "That is how we build better programs and better relationships—by showing that feedback isn't just heard; it's acted on." 

The Power of Presence: Tools That Ground and Guide 

Jess leads in an industry known for its complexity and fast pace—but she’s found her anchor in stillness. 

“I recently started using Insight Timer,” she says, referring to the meditation app that has become a go-to resource in her wellness toolbox. “It helps me refocus and recenter when things get hectic.” 

Mindfulness is a deep-rooted philosophy for Jess. A certified yoga instructor, she begins each day with movement and mindfulness, preparing herself mentally and physically to pour into others. Whether five minutes of guided breathing or a morning stretch, she believes grounding yourself first makes you a stronger, more present leader. 

In her world, where she balances the needs of founders, mentors, and stakeholders, presence is everything. 

Intentional Leadership: Communication and Clarity as Superpowers 

While some may equate innovation with chaos, Jess has proven that structure can be revolutionary. 

This year, she’s received glowing feedback for her ability to run the GIA’s 100-Day Program with a focus on clarity and organization. “I’m very aware that I throw a lot at our founders and mentors,” she says, smiling. “But I do it because I want them to get as much out of the program as possible.” 

She leads intentionally, always mindful that her job creates conditions for others to thrive. That means ensuring every detail is thought through, and every participant feels equipped and supported. 

“When people feel informed and empowered, they can focus on what really matters—collaborating, learning, and building something amazing.” 

Courageous Curiosity: From Unfamiliar Territory to Unmatched Influence 

It’s easy to assume Jess has always been part of the insurance world—but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Her original career dream? Becoming a therapist. 

Yet, as life often does, it had different plans. Jess’s path led her through nonprofit operations and volunteer management before landing at the GIA. Initially unsure about how she fit into the insurance industry, she quickly discovered that her ability to connect, communicate, and lead with heart was exactly what the space needed. 

“I didn’t come from insurance,” she reflects. “But that gave me the freedom to see the industry with fresh eyes—and bring new ideas to the table.” 

Her journey is a masterclass in courage. Jess teaches us that you don’t need to know everything to make a difference—you just need to show up with authenticity and a willingness to learn. 

The GIA Vibe: Big Vision, Small Team, Bold Results 

Jess may lead a nationally recognized program, but the team behind the scenes is intimate—just three powerhouse individuals. And that’s exactly how she likes it. 

“We’re a small but mighty group,” Jess says. “And our diverse backgrounds mirror the founders we work with.” 

This variety is GIA's secret weapon. Different experiences, ideas, and ways of thinking collide in the best possible way. Jess ensures that this diversity isn't just acknowledged—it's celebrated. 

The team’s collaborative spirit fuels the accelerator, infusing the program with energy, inclusivity, and a commitment to real-world impact. It’s a formula that works, and Jess is the architect behind the culture. 

Permission to Grow: Lessons, Laughter, and the Power of Reflection 

Over the past year, Jess has deepened her commitment to personal and professional growth—not just for the founders she mentors but also for herself. 

She’s leaned into asking better questions, listening more intentionally, and giving herself the same grace she offers others. She’s learned that progress doesn’t always look like a straight line—and that reflection is just as powerful as action. 

When asked what advice she most relies on, Jess doesn't hesitate to say, "It's okay not to have all the answers. Focus on creating a space where people feel valued, and the solutions will come." 

Looking Ahead: More Magic, More Movement 

As Jess looks to the year ahead, she’s excited about continuing to evolve the GIA’s offerings and exploring new ways to support insurtech founders. With her signature blend of kindness and ambition, she's building a future where startups solve real problems with empathy and excellence. 

She's also keeping space open for whatever comes next—with trust, intention, and the right sparkle. 

Because that’s what Jess Louis does best—she leads with heart, builds with purpose, and dares to believe that insurance can be a place of true innovation. 

And the rest of us? We’re lucky to be witnessing her shine. 

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