Lynn Lafortune: Leading with Execution, Purpose, and People

Congratulations to Lynn Lafortune, AVP, Distribution, on earning the Elite Woman Award. Lynn’s career path spans Claims, Underwriting, Marketing & Communications, and Distribution. While her career path has taken many different turns, her career approach and leadership have remained grounded in execution, people first values, and the courage to embrace change.

We spoke with Lynn about the decisions and mindsets that shaped her journey, the support that helped her grow into a senior market facing role, and her advice for women looking to build influence and define their professional brands. Here’s what she shared:

What key decisions, habits, or mindsets have shaped your journey to becoming an Elite Woman?

For me, it starts with being willing to say yes to opportunities that stretch you. My path moved from Claims to Underwriting, then into Marketing & Communications, and eventually into Distribution and field leadership. Every transition requires curiosity, self challenge, and getting comfortable with the discomfort that comes with growth.

A habit that’s been consistent throughout my career is execution. I’m a big believer that ideas only matter when they turn into real outcomes. That focus on follow-through helped me earn trust, deliver results, and keep momentum in every role I’ve held.

And most importantly, I prioritize people. Leading with empathy, integrity, and transparency has helped me build strong, collaborative cultures, where teams feel valued, supported, and genuinely empowered to do their best work. That people-first approach, paired with consistent execution, has been foundational for me.

What opportunities or support were most important in your progression into a senior market-facing role?

My progression into a senior market facing role was shaped by leaders, both within CNA and across the industry, who recognized my potential and opened doors that allowed me to stretch and lead. Internally, I was trusted with roles that expanded my strategic perspective and relationship management capabilities. Externally, broker partners, industry executives, and committee and board level leaders offered mentorship, perspective, and candid guidance that strengthened my executive presence and deepened my understanding of the market.

I also benefited from leadership networks and ERGs, which helped shape my inclusive, people first leadership approach. Stepping into Eastern Region leadership ultimately brought all of these experiences together, giving me the opportunity to apply the trust, mentorship, and advocacy I received from a broad circle of champions.

What message would you share with women looking to build influence and define their personal professional brands?

Your influence starts the moment you decide to show up authentically and intentionally. Your experiences and your perspective matter, so don’t wait for permission to use your voice.

If you’re building a professional brand, focus on what you consistently deliver: your character, your work ethic, and the impact you create. People remember leaders who follow through, act with integrity, listen well, and make others better.

Relationships are also everything. Influence isn’t about hierarchy; it’s about trust, credibility, and connection. Seek mentors, be a mentor, and build a circle of people who challenge you and lift you higher.

And don’t shrink, especially in rooms where women have historically been underrepresented. Take up space. Your career is yours to define. Lead with purpose, stay curious, and don’t underestimate the power of your own voice.

Explore more Elite Women leaders

This interview is part of our Elite Women blog series. Discover insights from Jacqueline Detablan and Erin Gattoni to learn how each leader is helping shape the future of the insurance industry.