100 Women in Insurance

042: Beyond the 9-to-5: Effective Flexible Working with Donna Wayman

TRIGGER WARNING - Please note that from minute 29 of the episode, we discuss baby loss, which may be triggering for some!
Summary
Donna Wayman, Chief Operating Officer at Zurich Legacy Solutions, shares her career journey and insights on flexible working in the insurance industry.
She discusses how she entered the insurance industry by chance and embraced opportunities for growth and development.
Donna emphasizes the importance of being open to different roles and experiences, even if they don't align with a strict career plan. She also highlights the value of having a generalist skill set and the ability to adapt to different roles and responsibilities.
Donna shares her experience with flexible working and the importance of setting boundaries to maintain work-life balance. Sandra discusses the importance of setting boundaries and finding a work-life blend that works for you.
Donna also shares her experience as a trustee for the charity Aching Arms, which provides support for families who have experienced baby loss.
Sandra and Donna emphasize the need for policies and training around baby loss in the workplace to support employees and their managers going through this difficult experience. Donna highlights the importance of empathy, listening, and avoiding insensitive comments when supporting someone who has experienced baby loss.
Takeaways
Embrace opportunities for growth and development, even if they don't align with a strict career plan.
Having a generalist skill set and the ability to adapt to different roles and responsibilities is valuable in the insurance industry.
Setting boundaries and finding a work-life blend is crucial for maintaining a fulfilling personal and professional life.
Consider the business needs of a role when seeking flexible working arrangements.
Focus on what you enjoy and what aligns with your skills and values, rather than pursuing a specific job title.
Supporting employees who have experienced baby loss requires policies and training in the workplace.
Empathy, listening, and avoiding insensitive comments are key when supporting someone who has experienced baby loss.
Sound Bites
"There are jobs out there that you probably don't even know about, but they are the jobs for you."
"I think the boundaries are about the things that are non-negotiable."
"Aching Arms are a charity that provide, fundamentally provide comfort bears. They are a gift from one family to another given to a family when they lose a baby."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Career Journey
03:10 Embracing Opportunities and Adaptability
06:03 Navigating Career Changes and Redundancy
08:41 Flexible Working and Work-Life Balance
15:53 Setting Boundaries for Successful Flexible Working
21:13 Choosing What You Enjoy and What Aligns with Your Skills
29:39 Supporting Employees Through Baby Loss
39:14 Empathy and Sensitivity
Resources
Aching Arms Charity for family who experienced baby loss
Episode 003 with Caroline Bedford - discussing generalist role in insurance
Episode 032 with Gemma Lines - discussing flexible working
About the Host
Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn and explore more insights: Sandra’s LinkedIn

041: The importance of role modelling with CJ De Guzman

Summary
Join Sandra in this enlightening episode as she engages in conversation with CJ De Guzman, an analytics engineer who has made significant strides in the insurance industry. Starting with a background in international business, CJ discusses her transition into insurance, fuelled by her passion for data analytics and strategic development. She shares insights into the pivotal role of mentors and supportive communities throughout her career and talks about her journey in overcoming imposter syndrome to become a role model herself.
Key Takeaways
Role models and supportive communities are crucial for overcoming imposter syndrome and enhancing industry support networks.
Being a role model involves setting an example and sharing knowledge and expertise.
Engaging with communities and maintaining visibility online is essential for connecting with peers and expanding professional networks.
The insurance industry offers unique and exciting opportunities for those interested in data and analytics.
The insurance sector provides significant career growth and development opportunities, even for those starting without a technical background.
Resources
Discover the 100 Women In Insurance Collective dedicated to connecting women in insurance: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective.
About the Host
Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn and explore more insights: Sandra’s LinkedIn

040: Positive Psychology, AI in Insurance, and Conscious Decision-Making with Gill White

Summary 
Gill White, Executive Director of Member Engagement and Learning for the Chartered Insurance Institute, shares her journey into the insurance industry, her interest in positive psychology, and the importance of professional qualifications. She emphasises the value of continuous learning and the impact it can have on one's career. Gill also discusses the role of positive psychology in personal and professional development, highlighting the power of conscious decision-making and choosing happiness. She explores the potential of AI in the insurance industry, noting that it will augment human roles and create more time for meaningful client interactions. Gill calls for greater diversity and retention efforts in the industry, emphasising the need for a positive culture and continuous development for younger professionals.
Takeaways
Continuous learning and professional qualifications are essential for personal and professional growth in the insurance industry.
Positive psychology and conscious decision-making can lead to greater happiness and success in one's career.
AI will augment human roles in the insurance industry, creating more time for meaningful client interactions.
The industry needs to prioritise diversity and retention efforts to attract and retain young talent.
A positive culture and continuous development are crucial for the success and satisfaction of younger professionals.
Sound Bites
"Making conscious decisions and choosing happiness can lead to greater success in your career."
"AI will augment human roles in the insurance industry, creating more time for meaningful client interactions."
"Continuous learning is essential for personal and professional growth."
Resources
Developing a Growth Mindset with Carol Dweck 
AGES Model 
Thinking, Fast and Slow: Daniel Kahneman 
AI book “Human + Machine: Reimagining Work in the Age of AI
Find out more about the collective at 100 Women in Insurance
About the Host
Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn and find out more: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/sandralewin

039: Career progression isn't always upwards with Amy Ing

Summary
In this conversation, Sandra interviews Amy Ing, an incubation underwriter for Beazley.
Amy shares her journey into the insurance industry, starting as a box assistant at Lloyds and eventually finding her passion for innovation.
They discuss the role of innovation in the insurance market and how it can drive change and create new opportunities.
During their talk, Amy also provides insights into breaking into innovation in the industry. Additionally, they touch on the challenges of balancing work and motherhood, debunking common myths about parenting, the importance of support networks, and the need to recognise and value different career paths and progression.
Takeaways
Career progression doesn't always have to mean moving up the corporate ladder. There are valuable roles and contributions that don't involve management positions.
Balancing work and motherhood is a challenge, and it's important to have support networks and flexible work arrangements to accommodate the needs of working parents.
Companies should recognise and value the diverse experiences and perspectives that employees bring to the table, and provide opportunities for growth and development that go beyond traditional promotions.
Authenticity and flexibility are key in finding a work-life balance that works for individuals and allows them to thrive both personally and professionally.
Resources
Related resources: Caroline Bedford and the EDII initiative here: Caroline Bedford and EDII
Thanks to Send for sponsoring this episode.
Send is an award-winning insurance software company. It’s flagship product is an AI-enabled Underwriting Workbench – a single platform from submission to bind, and beyond. The platform helps commercial and speciality insurers around the world drive greater efficiency, control and effectiveness. It has rich out-of-the-box functionality, workflow templates for over 40 lines of business, and proven deployments in multiple geographies.
About the Host
Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn to explore more insights and episodes: Sandra's LinkedIn

038: Embracing Neurodiversity Career and the Importance of Diverse Hiring with Caroline Taylor

Summary
Join us as Caroline Taylor shares her inspiring journey into the insurance industry, beginning when she left school at 16. Caroline's career has been driven by a passion for innovation and a commitment to change. She discusses the vital role of networking, the importance of supporting entry-level talent, and the need to challenge conventional recruitment to enhance diversity and inclusion.
She also opens up about her personal experience with imposter syndrome and neurodiversity, advocating for better support for neurodivergent individuals in the workplace.
Caroline reflects on how her experiences in the insurance industry have shaped her career, highlighting the benefits of coaching and therapy for neurodivergent traits to help with professional growth.
She also points out the importance of diverse hiring options, and embracing different entry levels, including early school leavers.
Takeaways
The traditional recruitment process may exclude diverse talent and limit opportunities to expand talent in the industry.
Supporting entry-level talent and increasing diversity in the industry is essential for innovation and better customer service. Diversity in hiring is crucial to bringing in different perspectives and talents.
Imposter syndrome affects both men and women, and it's important to address and overcome self-doubt.
Understanding and embracing one's neurodivergent traits can lead to personal growth and success.
Coaching and therapy can be valuable tools in navigating neurodiversity and improving communication and self-awareness.
Networking and building genuine connections are crucial for career growth and opportunities.
Reaching out to the network for support and opportunities can lead to unexpected job offers.
About the Host
Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn and find out more: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/sandralewin

037: From Underwriting to Broking, the Power of Embracing Opportunities with Alice Glenister

Summary
Alice Glenister, Head of Parametrics at Miller, shares her journey in the insurance industry, from underwriting, insurtech to broking. In this episode, Alice points out the value of resilience, flexibility, and embracing opportunities. She emphasises the importance of understanding rejection, shaping one's career, and the impact of mentorship. Alice's experience highlights the diverse paths and opportunities within the insurance industry, emphasising the value of personal and professional growth.
Takeaways
Success is not always defined by a rigid plan, but by the ability to embrace opportunities and remain flexible in one's journey.
Resilience and flexibility are key to navigating a successful career in the insurance industry.
Understanding rejection and using feedback to address concerns is essential for personal and professional growth.
Mentorship and the ability to shape one's career path are valuable aspects of the insurance industry.
About the Host
Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn and find out more: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/sandralewin

036: Navigating maternity leave, strategic career planning and no spam networking with Susan Andrew

This episode is sponsored by Arthur Recruitment.
Summary
In this episode, Susan Andrew, operations director at Brit, shares her unique career journey, moving from a compliance role in Banking to operations in Insurance. Susan shares valuable insights on career progression, maternity leave, and networking. Her career journey navigating two maternity leaves, promotion during maternity leave, career change and leadership style are great examples of what is possible and how to build a successful career on your own terms.
Susan emphasizes the importance of strategic thinking about our future careers, focusing on measurable value, and building meaningful connections through 'no spam networking'.
Key takeaways include:
Strategically think about your future career by understanding your core skills and what makes you happy at work.
Focus on measurable value and understand your contribution to the commercial and strategic goals of your company.
Don't be afraid to take side steps in your career as long as they align with your long-term goals.
Prepare for maternity leave by having honest conversations with your manager about your expectations and goals.
Build meaningful connections through authentic networking, focusing on shared experiences and mutual support.
Resource
Ted Talk 'Career Advice you probably didn't get'
'Lean In' Sheryl Sandberg
About the sponsor
Are you ready to take your insurance career or business to the next level?
Meet Arthur, your trusted insurance search and recruitment partner. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Arthur specialises in connecting top talent with the biggest names in insurance. They can help you with your next career step or offer dynamic hiring solutions to help you achieve lasting success.
Discover how Arthur can take your career or business to the next level at arthur.co.uk or call 0203 5877 234.

035: Navigating International Insurance Careers with Catherine Farnworth

This episode is sponsored by Arthur Recruitment.
Summary
Catherine Farnworth, Chief Actuary for UK and Europe at DUAL Group, shares her experiences as an 'insurance nomad' and offers insights on moving and working in different countries.
She emphasises the importance of considering both professional and personal factors when deciding to move, as well as maintaining a network and having a way back if needed.
Three key turning points in her career include her accidental move to Bermuda, transitioning from actuarial to risk to broaden her experience, and then returning to her actuarial roots to refocus on analytics.
These experiences shaped her career and provided valuable exposure and opportunities. In this conversation, Catherine discusses the different stages of her career and the importance of being flexible and open to new opportunities.
She emphasises the need to define success on your own terms and finding a balance between work and personal life.
Catherine also highlights the importance of building authentic relationships in the insurance industry and being true to oneself as a leader.
Takeaways
Consider both professional and personal factors when deciding to move to another country
Maintain a strong network and integrate into the local community
Have a plan for a way back (if needed)
Accidental opportunities can lead to valuable experiences and career growth
Transitioning to different roles within the industry can provide new perspectives and opportunities
Exposure to senior executives and building a network can accelerate career development
Be open to new opportunities and be willing to take risks in your career
Define success on your own terms
Build authentic relationships in the insurance industry based on mutual respect and trust
Embrace your authentic self and be true to your values and beliefs as a leader
Imposter syndrome is common, but learning to live with it and having tools to manage it can help
About the sponsor
Are you ready to take your insurance career or business to the next level?
Meet Arthur, your trusted insurance search and recruitment partner. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Arthur specialises in connecting top talent with the biggest names in insurance. They can help you with your next career step or offer dynamic hiring solutions to help you achieve lasting success.
Discover how Arthur can take your career or business to the next level at arthur.co.uk or call 0203 5877 234.

034: From Heartache to Hope: Journey into Insurance Entrepreneurship with Emma Astley

Summary 
Emma Astley from CoverMyBubble shares her journey of starting her own insurance brokerage and the personal experiences that inspired her.
She emphasises the importance of listening to clients and providing personalized insurance solutions. Emma also discusses the challenges she faced in the early stages of her business, including dealing with lead generation companies and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
She highlights the need for education and awareness around different types of insurance, such as bump cover and children's cover.
Despite the difficulties, Emma's resilience and determination have led to the success and growth of her business. Emma discusses the challenges of changing the old-school persona of insurance and the importance of authenticity. She highlights the lack of awareness around pregnancy complications and the need for bump cover. She also talks about the misconceptions about insurance and the importance of consulting with an advisor to understand the available options.
Emma’s story behind building the business is a true inspiration to many of us.
Takeaways
Educate and raising awareness about different types of insurance is key in supporting families' health in the long term
Resilience and determination are key to overcoming obstacles and achieving success in business and life
Authenticity is key in changing the old-school persona of insurance.
Better training for advisors and collaboration between insurers and advisors can raise awareness about different insurance options.
Building strong relationships within insurance is rewarding and impactful.

033: The Story Behind the Podcast with Sandra Lewin

Summary
In this episode, Sandra, the host of the 100 Women In Insurance Podcast, reflects on the journey of creating the podcast so far.
She shares her motivation for starting the podcast, the challenges she faced, and the lessons she learned along the way.
Sandra emphasizes the importance of showcasing the variety of roles available in the insurance industry and providing role models for women. She also highlights the need for knowledge and support in career progression and retention.
Sandra shares her key lessons from the episodes and guests so far, including definitions of success, the importance of authenticity, being kind to oneself and the power of sharing personal stories.
In this episode, Sandra also talks about upcoming plans for the podcast and community.
Takeaways
The 100 Women in Insurance podcast was created to showcase the variety of roles available in the insurance industry, celebrate role models and share career tips.
There is a need for knowledge and support in career progression and retention in the insurance industry.
Success can be defined in many ways, and there is no one path to achieving it.
Anyone can be a role model, regardless of their experience.
Authenticity is a personal choice and it's important for you to show up in a way that feels confident and comfortable.
Sharing personal stories can be empowering and inspiring to others.
Being kind to oneself is crucial for personal growth and well-being.
Running a podcast requires more than just recording and releasing episodes.
A new website and a community membership are upcoming plans for the podcast.
Sound Bites
"If I'm biased, anyone that doesn't think there is talent out there, they really need to learn because there is talent."
"Anyone can be a role model. It doesn't have to be a person that significantly has more years of experience."
"Success is defined in so many ways. And at various stages in your career."
"Success means different things to different people."
"You get to define your own authenticity."
"Be kind to yourself and understand your own needs and challenges."