The decision, effective immediately, marks a significant development for the innovative insurance company.
Deb Schwartz and Dr. Samer Haj-Yehia bring a wealth of expertise to their new roles, poised to succeed the outgoing Directors Irina Novoselsky and Silvija Martincevic. Novoselsky and Martincevic have recently assumed CEO positions in other prominent companies, paving the way for fresh perspectives and leadership within Lemonade.
The addition of Schwartz and Dr. Haj-Yehia to the Board underscores Lemonade’s commitment to steering the company’s trajectory with seasoned professionals at the helm.
Currently serving as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of H1, a leading healthcare data technology company, Schwartz brings a wealth of financial expertise to her new role on Lemonade’s Board of Directors. Her extensive experience includes notable tenures as CFO at Cameo and Bustle Digital Group, contributing to the success and strategic financial management of these organisations.
Her background in financial analysis and strategic planning positions her as a valuable addition to Lemonade’s leadership team, where her insights are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the company’s financial strategy and decision-making processes.
Dr. Samer Haj-Yehia contributes a wealth of executive and board experience garnered from diverse conglomerates spanning industries in both Israel and the United States.
Notably, until October 2023, Dr. Haj-Yehia held the esteemed position of Group Executive Chairman at Bank Leumi, Israel’s largest and oldest financial institution. Lemonade highlights his transformative leadership, citing that under his guidance, Bank Leumi ascended to become the largest and most efficient bank in Israel. During his tenure, the bank experienced substantial growth in both income and profitability, underwent significant technological transformation, and emerged as a hub of innovation.
Dr. Haj-Yehia’s influence extends beyond Israel, as he has also made significant contributions to the financial landscape in the United States. His expertise encompasses investment management, trading, and fintech innovation, with notable roles at prominent financial institutions, including a stint at Fidelity. Lemonade’s decision to welcome Dr. Haj-Yehia to its Board of Directors reflects the company’s commitment to leveraging his extensive experience for strategic guidance and growth.
Daniel Schreiber, Lemonade co-Founder and co-CEO, said of the move: “Deb and Samer bring exceptional knowledge and expertise to the Board and company—Deb being a true leader and trailblazer in business, healthcare, and the ever-evolving media landscape; and Samer, an incredibly esteemed economist who has broken barriers throughout his career.
“Their values and breadth of experience will help Lemonade continue to grow and innovate. We’re also hugely grateful to Irina and Silvija for their years of service to our Board and Company, especially during a period of transformative growth.”
Schwartz said: “I’ve focused much of my career on developing business and financial strategies that drive growth and innovation. I look forward to working with Daniel, Shai, and the Lemonade Board and leadership team as the Company continues on its path to profitability.”
Dr. Haj-Yehia commented, saying: “I’ve long shared Daniel and Shai’s belief that the power of technology and artificial intelligence have the ability to transform industries, especially centuries-old industries like insurance.”
He added: “Lemonade is doing exactly that, and I’m honoured to join the company’s Board of Directors at this pivotal time.”
