Ryan Suby

Outstanding Recent Alumni Award Honoree

Ryan Suby
Director of Technology Operations
Zurich North America

Ryan Suby has quickly ascended into a leadership role in technology, fueled by his Harper College education and technical expertise in data, analytics and cloud infrastructure. Today he’s director of technology operations for legal operations at Zurich North America.

“Harper gave me the confidence to pursue opportunities I never imagined for myself,” Suby said.

Suby graduated summa cum laude from Harper in 2014, earning an Associate of Science degree in mathematics. Harper provided the stepping stone to transfer to North Central College to complete his bachelor’s degree in mathematics. He recently earned an MBA from the University of Arizona Global Campus.

With his bachelor’s in mathematics, Suby had considered a career in actuarial science, even completing one of the tests. Then he discovered an opportunity that would shape his future: a general insurance apprenticeship at Zurich North America, in partnership with Harper.

“The mentorship and structure of the program gave me not only technical and business skills but also the confidence to step into leadership roles,” Suby said. “And I rotated through multiple departments to discover where I could make the most impact.” After completing the apprenticeship in 2019 (and earning additional degrees at Harper), Suby began his career in the legal department as a state filings and regulations associate, bringing new tools and reporting capabilities into the team. Today, he leads initiatives including the modernization of cloud infrastructure, implementation of a centralized legal data platform in Microsoft Azure, and the integration of AI-powered tools to streamline legal operations.

“I love the challenge of building systems that drive efficiency and empower others to make better decisions,” Suby said. “I’ve always approached every opportunity with curiosity and a willingness to raise my hand.”

Suby’s leadership extends to Zurich’s LGBTQ+ employee resource group, PrideZ. He helps create inclusive spaces and connect Zurich with organizations such as Youth Services of Glenview/Northbrook and Howard Brown Health. These partnerships support at-risk LGBTQ+ youth and expand Zurich’s visibility in the community. He also organizes the company’s participation in the Chicago Pride Parade 
Suby serves as treasurer of the Chicago Northwest Suburban CPCU Society Chapter (a professional organization for claims, underwriting and insurance professionals). His goal is to give back to the industry, the community and the next generation of leaders.

“Joining Zurich’s Apprenticeship Program in partnership with Harper completely changed the trajectory of my career,” Suby said. “And now, mentoring and supporting others has become one of the most rewarding aspects of my own career.”