Awkward Insurance

Featured GuestJay Gates Managing Director, Gallagher National Restaurant Practice 20+ years in insurance, former Applebee’s risk leader, RIMS committee member, and Kids Chance Nebraska board member. What We CoverJay’s unexpected path into risk and insuranceLessons learned investigating EEOC claims early in his careerLeadership principles developed while managing large claims teamsBuilding a full ERM program for 165+ Applebee’s locationsThe most surprising and severe claims in restaurant operationsHow Gallagher reduces the total cost of risk for restaurant clientsInnovative approaches including captives and proprietary analyticsUnderestimated risks: cyber breaches + product recallsThe growing impact of AI on restaurant ops and riskPrivacy + liability concerns tied to AI adoptionThe future of restaurant risk management over the next decadeKey TakeawaysRestaurant risks are broader than most expect. From contaminated produce to liquor liability fatalities, claims can escalate fast.Cyber and product recall coverages are essential, despite being commonly undervalued.AI will reshape restaurant risk—from customer service to operations tracking—creating both efficiencies and new exposures.Gallagher’s differentiator is proactive service, deep data analysis, and tailoring insurance strategy to each client's risk tolerance.Risk leaders benefit from diverse career experiences, which Jay draws on daily.Resources & LinksLearn more about the Restaurant Risk Professional (RRP) certification: riskeducation.org/restaurant-RiskProExplore additional Alliance Insights episodes at riskeducation.org Focusing exclusively on risk management and insurance professional development, the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance provides a practical advantage at every career stage, positioning our participants and their clients for confidence and success.