100 Women in Insurance

Summary Thank you to BCH for sponsoring this episode. In this episode, Sandra speaks with Caroline Wagstaff, about accidental careers, bold decisions, and why putting yourself forward often matters more than feeling ready. Caroline shares her journey into insurance from a marketing background, describing it as a mix of choice and serendipity. From building her own successful business to stepping into one of the most influential leadership roles in the market, her career is a reminder that not every step needs to be perfectly planned. Together, they unpack what leadership really looks like at the senior level. The shift from “doing” to listening, influencing, and creating space for others. And why many people struggle with this transition, often feeling like they are not adding value when in fact, that is the role. The conversation also dives into one of the biggest challenges facing the industry today: Talent. Caroline shares honest insights on the imbalance between supply and demand. From overwhelming volumes of applications to a lack of structured entry pathways and an ageing workforce creating a future gap. They challenge the idea that the problem is simply attracting talent, and instead explore whether the real issue is what happens after talent arrives. This is a conversation about confidence, curiosity, and building a career that is intentional, not accidental. Key Takeaways You don’t need to feel ready to take the next step. Careers are often shaped by opportunity and action, not perfect planning. Leadership at senior level is about listening and influencing, not just doing. The insurance industry may have a demand problem, not just a supply problem. Community is one of the strongest retention tools in the industry. Flexibility and trust are essential for modern ways of working. Social media is one of the most powerful (and underused) tools to attract talent. You either trust your team or you don’t. There is no middle ground. About the Guest Connect with Caroline Wagstaff on LinkedIn. About the Host Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn Sign up to ‘Coffee with Sandra’ newsletter to stay up to date on all things 100 Women in Insurance. Join ‘The Pink Book’ Collective — a private LinkedIn group connecting women in insurance to find mentors, speaking opportunities and more.

Summary Thank you to BCH for sponsoring this episode. In this episode, Sandra speaks with Zoe Davenport, Head of Customer and Brand at BCH, about the question many women still quietly navigate: Why are women still hesitating to talk about ambition and family at work? Zoe shares her unexpected journey into insurance, from qualifying as a quantity surveyor during the 2009 financial crisis to building a 14-year career that evolved from surveying into marketing and customer leadership. Her story is a reminder that career paths are rarely linear and that transferable skills often matter more than we realise. Together, Sandra and Zoe explore the tension many women feel between career progression and family planning. They discuss the unspoken calculations that happen in your late twenties and early thirties, the fear of being “written off” before anything has even happened, and why open conversations still feel risky for many. Zoe reflects candidly on pregnancy, returning to work, nursery chaos, and the emotional reality behind what looks like a seamless transition on LinkedIn. They examine how return-to-work programmes are only as effective as the culture behind them and why genuine support cannot simply live on paper. The conversation also dives into networking dynamics, from golf days to manicure meetings, and challenges the idea that you must emulate existing norms to earn your seat at the table. This is an honest discussion about ambition, authenticity, culture, and building a workplace where women do not feel they have to shrink, hide or pre-emptively slow down their careers. Key Takeaways Career paths evolve, and transferable skills are often underestimated. It is easy to climb a ladder you never consciously chose. Many women still self-edit ambition when family planning becomes part of the picture. Open conversations require cultural safety, not just policy. Return-to-work support depends on manager mindset and company ethos. You do not have to change who you are to build influence. Networking can (and should) evolve beyond traditional formats. Culture is experienced through people, not just written in handbooks. Insurance offers diverse, fascinating career opportunities that many women have yet to fully see. About the Guest Connect with Zoe Davenport on LinkedIn. Zoe is Head of Customer and Brand at BCH, a leading provider of reinstatement cost assessments, and a passionate advocate for equity, inclusion and sustainable career progression within insurance and construction. About the Sponsor BCH is a multidisciplinary Chartered Building Consultantancy. Visit the website. Follow on LinkedIn. About the Host Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn. Sign up to the ‘Coffee with Sandra’ newsletter to stay up to date on all things 100 Women in Insurance. Join ‘The Pink Book’ Collective, a private LinkedIn community connecting women in insurance to find mentors, speaking opportunities and much more.

100 Women in Insurance Summit 26th March 2026 A day and evening event to celebrate 100th podcast episode. Expect plenty of learning, networking and celebrating opportunities. Get your tickets here. Thanks to this episode sponsor Avencia Talent Solutions In this episode, Sandra Lewin speaks with Liz Charlesworth, Managing Partner at Avencia Talent Solutions , about accidental exposure, intentional visibility, and why assumptions are quietly holding female talent back. Together, they unpack what really happens behind senior hiring conversations, especially long before a job is even advertised. They explore the concept of “accidental exposure”, which can be challenging in a remote working environments, and how to increase it. Visibility is intentional. Relationships should be nurtured before you even need them. And your value can be articulated clearly without ego and arrogance. Sandra and Liz also challenge one of the biggest barriers to progression: Assumptions. Assumptions about ambition. Assumptions about flexibility. Assumptions about parental responsibilities. Assumptions about who is “ready.” And in doing so, they arrive at something simple but powerful: If organisations stopped assuming and started asking, the pipeline would change. Flexibility, they argue, does not mean less ambition. It means rethinking how and when work gets done so careers are sustainable. This is a conversation about risk, visibility, advocacy, and building leadership pipelines intentionally, not accidentally. Key takeaways: Accidental exposure has reduced in remote environments, so visibility must now be intentional. Hard work that is not seen is often mistaken for silence. Visibility is not ego it is clarity about your value. Reactive hiring often defaults to familiar networks, narrowing diversity. Flexibility does not equal reduced ambition. It is about sustainability. Assumptions are one of the biggest blockers to female progression. Transparent policies remove the need for uncomfortable conversations. About the guest Connect with Liz Charlesworth (Liz Langford Archer) on LinkedIn. About the sponsor Avencia Talent Solutions a strategic talen solutions that evolve with your business . Connect on LinkedIn About the host Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn Sign up to ‘Coffee with Sandra’ newsletter to stay up to date on all 100 Women In Insurance and more. Join ‘The Pink Book’ Collective — a private LinkedIn group connecting women in insurance to find mentors, speaking opportunities and much more.

100 Women in Insurance Summit 26th March 2026 A day and evening event to celebrate 100th podcast episode. Expect plenty of learning, networking and celebrating opportunities. Get your tickets here. Thanks to this episode sponsor AdvantageGo. Summary In this episode, Sandra speaks with Kirat Kaur Nandra about what it really means to take up space in rooms you were never expected to enter. Kirat shares how she fell into insurance by accident and how that unexpected start turned into a successful career defined by hard work, mentoring, and legacy. They explore the quiet work that often goes unseen, such as hundreds of Lloyd’s tours, the mentoring of young people from underrepresented backgrounds, and the belief that impact does not need applause to matter. Kirat also opens up about becoming the first women of colour to have her portrait displayed in the historic Old Library at Lloyd’s. She shares the deeply personal story behind the pink dress in the painting and what that moment meant for her and her family. Sandra and Kirat reflect on grief, caring responsibilities and how legacy can be shaped through resilience. The conversation also introduces a phrase that now lives beyond this episode: “Walk like a peacock.” A message from Kirat’s late father about standing tall, owning your presence, and carrying confidence into every room. This is a conversation about confidence, heritage, mentorship, and achieving what once felt impossible. Key Takeaways You do not need an audience for your impact to matter. Mentoring is about listening first, advising second. Younger generations bring courage and values led leadership that we can learn from. Confidence is not arrogance, it is grounded self-belief. Taking up space authentically is an act of leadership. Your background does not define your ceiling. Walking like a peacock means standing tall with dignity, not ego. About the Guest Connect with Kirat Kaur Nandra on LinkedIn. About the Host Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn Sign up to ‘Coffee with Sandra’ newsletter to stay up to date on all things 100 Women In Insurance and more. Join ‘The Pink Book’ Collective — a private LinkedIn group connecting women in insurance to find mentors, speaking opportunities and much more

100 Women in Insurance Summit 26th March 2026 A day and evening event to celebrate 100th podcast episode. Expect plenty of learning, networking and celebrating opportunities. Get your tickets here. Summary In this episode, Sandra speaks with Donna Robertson about what it really means to trust yourself when the timing feels inconvenient and the decision is uncomfortable. Donna shares a moment many women will recognise. On paper, everything looked great. Seniority, experience, strong results. But while pregnant with her second child, she realised that waiting for circumstances to improve felt harder than being honest. The timing was far from ideal, yet staying silent no longer felt sustainable. Instead of waiting for certainty or the “right time,” Donna chose transparency, handed in her notice at eight months pregnant, and trusted her gut. Together, they explore why so many women slow down mid-career, particularly after having children. Not because ambition fades or capability is lost, but because the perceived cost of getting it wrong increases. Donna challenges the way maternity leave is often treated as a career risk, despite being a predictable, manageable event. The episode closes with what Donna chose to build instead. A brokerage shaped by values rather than volume, where trust, transparency and long-term relationships matter more than commission or incentives. She talks about leadership, flexible working and why selling does not need pressure to work when it is rooted in clarity and doing the right thing. This is a conversation about backing yourself before everything feels ready, and choosing alignment when certainty never quite arrives. Takeaways When the internal resistance becomes louder than the external risk, it is often a signal to reassess rather than push through Transparency early on can save time and emotional energy later on Waiting for certainty can keep you aligned to roles that no longer reflect who you are becoming Values-led businesses create stronger loyalty than incentive-led models Selling works best when it is rooted in trust, education, and long-term relationships Flexible working succeeds when outcomes matter more than optics Being open early on, helps see which environments are genuinely supportive, and which are simply familiar Choosing alignment may feel uncomfortable in the short term, but it creates far more sustainable careers over time About the Guest Connect with Donna Robertson on LinkedIn. Find out more about Squared Insurance Brokers.  About the host Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn Sign up to ‘Coffee with Sandra’ newsletter to stay up to date on all 100 Women In Insurance and more. Join ‘The Pink Book’ Collective, private LinkedIn Group connecting women in insurance to find mentors, speaking opportunities and much more.

100 Women in Insurance Summit 26th March 2026 A day and evening event to celebrate 100th podcast episode. Expect plenty of learning, networking and celebrating opportunities. Get your tickets here. Summary In this episode, Sandra speaks with Katherine Bryant, CEO of The Progress Partnership and founder of the Insurance Breakfast Club, about what happens when a career is going well on paper, but no longer feels right in practice. Katherine shares why insurance was a clear career choice from the start, how stepping into leadership roles sparked her interest in people and performance, and how a serious health crisis forced her to stop and rethink how she was working. That moment became a turning point, changing how she thought about success, sustainability, and what good leadership really looks like. Together, they explore a point many women reach mid-career, when the job looks good from the outside but no longer fits. They talk about the guilt that can come with wanting change, the difference between choosing something new and feeling pushed out, and why retaining women is less about ‘fixing confidence’ and more about having honest conversations. The episode closes with how the Insurance Breakfast Club began, and why panel training has become such a practical route to stronger visibility, not just on stage, but in meetings, client conversations, and leadership rooms. Takeaways If you are considering a change, get clear on your “why” first, then test the options that could solve it Visibility grows when you talk about impact, shifting how colleagues see your contribution and potential Build networks across the organisation, not just within your team, it changes your influence and access Don’t assume you cannot do a role because of travel, hours, or visibility demands, propose a different model Create your own room if you cannot see yourself in the existing ones Listening to health and burnout signals early matters, because ignoring them can force a much harder stop later on Coaching can turn “I have no options” into choices, helping you align work with your values, purpose and long‑term wellbeing Flexibility does not always mean leaving corporate life; reshaping roles, expectations and ways of working can keep women in the industry in a way that also works for their lives About the Guest Connect with Katherine Bryant on LinkedIn. About the host Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn Sign up to ‘Coffee with Sandra’ newsletter to stay up to date on all 100 Women In Insurance and more. Join ‘The Pink Book’ Collective, private LinkedIn Group connecting women in insurance to find mentors, speaking opportunities and much more.

In this episode, Sandra speaks with Allia Khan about what happens when you decide to treat your ideas as choices you are allowed to make, rather than chances that happen to you. Allia shares how she moved from a legal role in logistics into the Lloyd’s market, why she trusted her gut when everything felt unfamiliar and how insurance became a space for growth. She also talks about launching Mansion 28, the luxury fashion brand inspired by her travels to the Middle East, and why she sees it as a second career rather than a “side hustle”. Sandra and Allia explore what it means to walk into rooms where you are the only woman or the only person from an ethnic minority background, and how visible difference can become a source of strength. Allia also reflects on the impact of LinkedIn, building an employee resource group with purpose, and the mindset that stops her from reaching old age thinking, “I wish I had tried”. Key Takeaways Your choices shape how you tell your story. Gut feel is data, and paying attention to how people, culture and opportunity make you feel can be a useful guide when you change sectors or roles. Your job is not your life, and allowing yourself more than one professional identity can protect your sense of purpose and keep your spark alive. How you label your business matters, and moving from “side hustle” to “my business” can shift both your confidence and how others take it seriously. Difference can be a value proposition, especially when you choose to stand out in a room rather than shrinking yourself to fit an unspoken norm. Authenticity has levels, and you can be true to yourself at work without sharing every part of your life with every person. Inclusive cultures need visible action, through ERGs that invite people in, open conversations on topics like menopause, and genuine allyship from across the organisation. About the Guest Connect with Allia Khan on LinkedIn. Mansion 28 fashion. About the host Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn Sign up to ‘Coffee with Sandra’ newsletter to stay up to date on all 100 Women In Insurance and more.

Summary In this episode, Sandra speaks with Rebecca Apps about what happens when you stop writing yourself off and decide to try. Rebecca shares how she fell into insurance by chance after leaving university, why a family-run brokerage shaped her career for nearly two decades and what finally pushed her to believe she could make a move she once thought was “too late”. They talk about the moment Covid changed everything for working parents, how flexible working opened doors she had already closed in her mind, and what it took to step into a major broking house after years of assuming the opportunity had passed. Rebecca talks openly about rebuilding confidence later in her career, moving from part-time to full-time after 16 years, and learning how to walk into rooms where assumptions can follow women who work around school hours. She reflects on how organisation, resilience and a strong work ethic grounded her through each transition, and why naming non negotiables can often be the first step towards change. Key Takeaways You often realise what you want by naming what you will not compromise on, whether that is your hours, your boundaries, or your life outside work. Experience can outweigh job titles, especially when you have spent years juggling clients, deadlines and family life with consistency. Visibility comes from speaking up, even if your instinct is to sit behind someone else and let them take the lead. Sometimes one conversation shifts everything, especially when someone says, “I’ll put your name forward” and you suddenly see yourself differently. Confidence grows when you try, not when you wait for certainty to appear. The skills you build outside work count, especially the organisation and focus that come from being a parent. Most people want honesty, even when the message is difficult, and trust is built through clear explanations rather than perfect outcomes. You can reconnect with ambition at any age, and the right environment can remind you that your story is not finished. About the Guest Connect with Rebecca Apps on LinkedIn. About the host Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn Sign up to ‘Coffee with Sandra’ newsletter to stay up to date on all 100 Women In Insurance and more. Join ‘The Pink Book’ Collective, private LinkedIn Group connecting women in insurance to find mentors, speaking opportunities and much more.

Summary In this episode, Sandra speaks with Catrin Townsend about making actuarial work accessible, navigating career pivots with purpose, and building confidence in a field that is often misunderstood from the outside. Catrin shares how a chance role at Lloyd’s sparked her interest in actuarial science, what pricing looked like when risks were printed on a mouse mat once a year, and how the rise of machine learning has transformed the way insurers understand risk. She explains why statistics only reflect the past, why underwriters still play a critical role in shaping decisions, and how education becomes essential when you want people to trust new tools and approaches. Sandra and Catrin explore her transition from practitioner to educator, the process of writing Risky Business Book during maternity leave, and how motivation, rather than pressure, is what sustains big projects. They discuss how to test new career paths without taking big risks, why LinkedIn can feel human rather than performative, and how boundaries help you manage ambition alongside family life. Catrin also reflects on visibility, representation, and why she hopes the next generation will grow up seeing actuaries reflected in places they never expected, including in children’s storytelling and culture. Key Takeaways Actuaries quantify risk, turning ambiguity into something that can be priced, managed, or transferred. Technology has transformed pricing, moving from annual updates to fast, data-driven iteration. Education drives adoption, because people trust what they understand. Test new paths early, through internal networks, shadowing, and low-risk learning opportunities. Know your “why”, because motivation sustains difficult work longer than pressure ever will. LinkedIn works when it is conversational, not overly curated or robotic. Boundaries shift over time, and children adapt quickly when they understand the purpose behind your work. Representation matters, because seeing a role is often the first step to believing it is possible. Visibility builds community, and sharing achievements can strengthen confidence and connection. About the guest Connect with Catrin Townsend on LinkedIn Resource Catrin is the author of *Risky Business: Actuaries Quantifying and Managing Risk* and a recent Women in Insurance Awards winner. About the host Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn Sign up to ‘Coffee with Sandra’ newsletter to stay up to date on all 100 Women In Insurance and more. Join ‘The Pink Book’ Collective, private LinkedIn Group connecting women in insurance to find mentors, speaking opportunities and much more. Learn more about the 100 Women in Insurance Collective: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective

This episode is sponsored by Fidelis Insurance Group Summary In this episode, Sandra speaks with Hannah Greenwood, Group Chief of Staff and Chief Underwriting Officer (Bermuda) at Fidelis Insurance Group, about how curiosity, courage and consistency shape a global career. Hannah shares how a Lloyd’s of London internship led her into insurance, how broking taught her the value of team culture and ego-free leadership, and how curiosity opened doors to strategy and M&A. She reflects on staying long enough in one firm to build goodwill, taking on stretch roles that expanded her perspective, and moving from London to Bermuda to help drive underwriting strategy and partnerships. They discuss how sponsorship grows through consistent delivery, the benefits of taking calculated risks, why you should “underwrite” your own career by gathering information, testing fit, and adjusting as you learn. Hannah also talks candidly about balancing leadership and motherhood, the myth of the perfect time for big life decisions, and the advantages of Bermuda’s concentrated, senior market. Takeaways Deliver excellence first. Strong performance in your current role builds credibility and sponsorship naturally Consistency earns trust. Sponsors appear when people see you deliver results repeatedly Curiosity opens doors. Asking questions and exploring projects beyond your remit expands your perspective Longevity creates advocacy. Staying with one organisation long enough builds goodwill and career champions Take calculated risks. Growth often comes from stepping into roles before you feel fully prepared Listen widely, decide independently. Advice helps, but only you know what’s right for you Build layered networks. Supportive relationships sustain you, and transactional ones advance you Leadership without ego scales influence. The best leaders invest in others and create room for growth Mobility accelerates learning. Working abroad, especially in smaller markets, can deepen exposure to strategy and leadership Balance is ongoing. There’s never a perfect time for big life choices, but structure and support make it possible. Career progression often follows a narrow path; seek diverse experiences Great leadership invests in people and keeps ego out of the room About the Sponsor About the sponsor Fidelis Insurance Group Fidelis Insurance Group is a global specialty insurance and reinsurance company focused on creating value through strategic capital allocation, expert risk selection and a network of long-term underwriting partnerships. We have built a strong foundation for scale and profitable growth, underpinned by our disciplined approach to risk selection and our financial strength, which is reflected in our insurer financial strength ratings of A from AM Best, A- from S&P and A3 from Moody’s. Our network of underwriting partners and highly diversified portfolio enable us to proactively navigate market cycles, offer innovative and tailored solutions, capitalize on favorable risk-reward opportunities and produce superior returns for shareholders. Our network of underwriting partners and highly diversified portfolio enable us to execute our strategy of proactively navigating market cycles, offering innovative and tailored solutions, capitalizing on favorable risk-reward opportunities and producing superior returns for shareholders. For additional information about Fidelis Insurance Group, our people and our products, please visit our website at www.FidelisInsurance.com. About the guest Connect with Hannah Greenwood on LinkedIn. Hannah currently serves as Group Chief of Staff, Bermuda Chief Underwriting Officer and is a member of the Executive Leadership Team. Prior to joining the company in 2023, Hannah served as Business manager for Ardonagh where she worked with the CEO of their Capital Solutions arm. Hannah started her career at Lloyd’s before becoming an energy broker at independent NMB, latterly renamed Ed. In 2020, she took on a more strategic role supporting the CEO of the business, with a focus across Specialty lines. Hannah holds a BA in Politics, Philosophy and Economics from the University of Durham, an MBA from Warwick Business School and is ACII qualified. About the host Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn. Sign up to ‘Coffee with Sandra’ to stay up to date with 100 Women in Insurance. Join ‘The Pink Book’ Collective, a private LinkedIn group connecting women in insurance with mentors, speaking opportunities, and community. Learn more about the 100 Women in Insurance Collective: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective.

This episode is sponsored by Full Circle Communications. Summary In this episode, Sandra Lewin speaks with Rebecca Fuller, about choosing the career you want, staying curious at senior level, and why courage comes before confidence. Rebecca shares how moving from fitness to insurance shaped her approach to leadership, why motherhood helped her step into bigger roles, and how knowing your strengths and gaps builds better teams. Together they discuss public speaking, preparation, and self-reflection. Rebecca explains why women’s networks matter, how to build professional networks in male-dominated rooms, and why you should stop “breaking into the boys’ club” and create your own. Be courageous and confidence will follow. Stay curious. Make deliberate choices that fit the life you want. Takeaways Growth does not stop at senior level. Keep learning, keep testing yourself Motherhood can be a catalyst for leadership and clearer choices Choose the career you want, not the one you think you need Courage comes before confidence. Action builds belief Preparation improves performance. Script, rehearse, use the mirror, and practise silence Know your strengths and weaknesses. Hire, listen, and delegate accordingly Do not chase the “boys’ club”. Create your own spaces and shared interests Show up for networking with presence. Diversify how you connect Lead your priorities. Reassess quarterly, refocus, and let some things go Feeling valued and heard keeps talent engaged more than pay alone About the guest Connect with Rebecca Fuller on LinkedIn About the host Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn Sign up to ‘Coffee with Sandra’ newsletter to stay up to date on all 100 Women In Insurance and more. Join ‘The Pink Book’ Collective, private LinkedIn Group connecting women in insurance to find mentors, speaking opportunities and much more. Learn more about the 100 Women in Insurance Collective: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective

Summary In this episode, Sandra speaks with Kelly Nwankwo about belonging, curiosity, and the power of reputation in building a meaningful career. Kelly reflects on her twists and turns throughout her career, which were a combination of reflection, plan and openness to try. Her journey through broking, into consulting, and back to the market is a testimonial of how our careers can take unexpected turns. Through these shifts, Kelly learned how reputation, relationships, and self-awareness shape long-term success. Together, Sandra and Kelly discuss personal brand and authenticity, exploring how to adapt to new environments without losing yourself. Kelly describes authenticity as something you can “dial up or down,” depending on context, but never perform. She also explains how curiosity and courage open new doors and how showing up consistently builds trust and visibility. Kelly highlights networks like LTL, ACIN (now known as Equity), and iCAN, which gave her both support and lifelong friendships. She believes that belonging is what keeps people in the industry and that inclusion helps people thrive once they arrive. She also shares her view that ambition should be tied to learning, not titles, and looks ahead to a more diverse, technology-driven future for insurance. Takeaways Career paths evolve through curiosity and courage Your reputation travels faster than you do, protect it A strong personal brand is built through visibility, consistency and authenticity Mentors and peers shape how you grow and lead Professional networks build belonging and confidence Managers can nurture ambition by creating space for learning Ambition tied to learning drives sustainable growth AI will reshape work, but human connection will always matter Fulfilment comes from purpose, progress, and the people around you Diversity in the workplace enhances the overall experience and retention Community and friendships formed through networking can be lifelong Diversity brings people in, but inclusion keeps them About the guest Connect with Kelly Nwankwo on LinkedIn. About the host Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn. Sign up to ‘Coffee with Sandra’ to stay up to date with 100 Women in Insurance. Join ‘The Pink Book’ Collective, a private LinkedIn group connecting women in insurance with mentors, speaking opportunities, and community. Learn more about the 100 Women in Insurance Collective: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective.

Sign up to Coffee with Sandra to stay up to date with all things 100 Women in Insurance. Summary In this episode, Sandra Lewin speaks with Abbey Atkinson about what really holds women back from progressing into senior roles in insurance. The conversation goes beyond quick fixes or skills workshops and looks honestly at the systems, structures, and habits that still shape how organisations work. 🚨 It is not a woman problem. Abbey shares insights from her PhD research, exploring how culture, power, and trust influence progression. She explains the concept of role habitus and how some jobs are designed around old norms, forcing people to adapt themselves to fit. Together, Sandra and Abbey discuss how trust operates differently for women, why flexible working can sometimes become overwork, and what needs to shift for change to be genuine. The message is clear: women don’t need fixing. The system does. And if we create the right environment, there is plenty of food at the table for everyone to eat. Takeaways Progression barriers are mostly cultural and structural, not about women’s capability Role habitus explains how certain roles carry built-in behaviours that favour dominant norms Women often need to re-earn trust repeatedly, while men’s trust tends to remain intact Flexible working can help, but without boundaries it often leads to invisible overwork Women juggle both professional and personal networks, adding unseen emotional labour Women-centred networks are valuable, but they need links to decision-makers to drive change Networking should be treated as a skill and supported equally across the business Employee groups need proper funding and leadership buy-in, not just goodwill Honest dialogue from leadership matters more than polished surveys or policy statements True equality means redesigning systems so everyone has room to contribute About the Guest Connect with Abbey Atkinson on LinkedIn Read her latest article, Why We Haven’t Yet Achieved Equality, part of her Bringing a New Beat to Equality series. Abbey’s research challenges the idea that women need to change to progress. Through her work with Insight Change and her academic research, she focuses on how culture, trust, and role design can either open or close the path to leadership. About the Host Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn Sign up to Coffee with Sandra to stay up to date with all things 100 Women in Insurance. Join The Pink Book Collective, a private LinkedIn group connecting women in insurance to mentors, speaking opportunities, and community. Learn more about the 100 Women in Insurance Collective: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective

Sign up to Coffee with Sandra to stay up to date with all things 100 Women in Insurance. Summary In this episode, Sandra Lewin speaks with Jacqueline Sinclair about how careers can begin by chance, why integrity and connection matter more than ever, and how success evolves as we grow. Jacqueline shares how her first interview in London didn’t go quite as planned, but ultimately led to a rewarding career built on curiosity and adaptability. She reflects on what she’s learned from working across both startups and established organisations, and how her focus has shifted from personal milestones to developing others and building teams. Together, Sandra and Jacqueline explore the realities of the gender pay gap, the growing number of women designing work around their lives, and why flexibility has become a powerful form of leadership. They also discuss how to network as an introvert, why small acts of courtesy go a long way, and what the rise of AI means for the future of work and inclusion. It’s a conversation about values, change, and the courage to shape a career on your own terms. Takeaways Careers often start by chance; purpose is built through experience Success evolves from individual achievement to collective growth Flexibility and autonomy create space for better balance Courtesy and reputation matter in a small, connected industry The gender pay gap widens mid-career and needs deliberate action Networking can be one-to-one and rooted in genuine curiosity AI is transforming how we work, but human insight remains vital Diversity in AI and leadership helps prevent bias and drive fairness The insurance industry offers wide and varied opportunities for all About the guest Connect with Jacqueline Sinclair on LinkedIn About the host Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn Sign up to Coffee with Sandra to stay up to date with all things 100 Women in Insurance. Join The Pink Book Collective — a private LinkedIn group connecting women in insurance to mentors, speaking opportunities, and community. Learn more about the 100 Women in Insurance Collective: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective

Sign up to Coffee with Sandra to stay up to date with all things 100 Women in Insurance. Summary In this episode, Sandra speaks with Lesley Charteris, about why it’s never too late to start again, how to overcome fear, and the four words that can change the direction of your career: I can do it. Lesley shares her journey from industrial chemistry to 40 years in the London insurance market, before retraining in her 50s to specialise in cybersecurity. She talks about recognising your strengths, valuing experience over qualifications, and the importance of lifelong learning. She also opens up about navigating gender bias, the misconceptions around AI, and why creating a no-blame culture is essential for building cyber resilience. Her message is clear: “if you can read a book, you can do anything”, and if you put your hand up, opportunities will follow. Takeaways You don’t need to have it all figured out, career transitions can happen at any stage Continuous learning is the key to staying relevant Attitude and curiosity matter more than credentials Don’t fear being the only woman in the room , our perspective is powerful Self-advocacy and confidence create opportunities Digital transformation in insurance requires cultural change as much as technology Cybersecurity isn’t new, it’s about people as much as systems A no-blame culture encourages learning and reporting mistakes If you think you can’t do it, think again About the guest Connect with Lesley Charteris on LinkedIn About the host Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn Sign up to ‘Coffee with Sandra’ newsletter to stay up to date on all 100 Women In Insurance and more. Join ‘The Pink Book’ Collective, private LinkedIn Group connecting women in insurance to find mentors, speaking opportunities and much more. Learn more about the 100 Women in Insurance Collective: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective

Sign up to Coffee with Sandra to stay up to date with all things 100 Women in Insurance. This episode is sponsored by MS Reinsurance. Summary In this episode, Sandra speaks with Maria V Amelio about what hard work really looks like, why confidence in your ability matters, and how visibility can change the course of a career. "Working hard and just saying ‘I’m so busy’ doesn’t necessarily mean you’re a good hard worker." – Maria V Amelio Maria shares the pivotal risks that shaped her journey, how she built her personal brand, and the difference between mentors who guide you and sponsors who open doors for you. She also reflects on empathy in difficult conversations and why clear career paths and incentives are essential to retaining female talent. Maria reflects on her involvement with St. Baldrick’s, a childhood cancer charity founded by reinsurance professionals, and how her personal loss made the cause deeply meaningful. She also shares how the industry’s support during that time shaped her career and her life. Takeaways The importance of having personal goals Different career paths in insurance require distinct skill sets. Taking risks can lead to significant career opportunities. Local and global companies offer different experiences, but performance is key. Personal branding influences how others perceive and interact with you. Authenticity at work means being true to yourself while remaining professional. The insurance industry faces a talent gap that needs addressing. Mentorship provides guidance, while sponsorship offers opportunities. Visibility is crucial for career advancement; hard work alone isn't enough. Difficult conversations require confidence and empathy. About the guest Connect with Maria V Amelio. About the sponsor MS Reinsurance is a global reinsurer domiciled in Switzerland with underwriting offices in Zurich, Bermuda, Miami, and New York. The Company underwrites non-life treaty reinsurance solutions on a worldwide basis through its three business units: Americas, International, and Specialty Lines. About the host Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn Sign up to ‘Coffee with Sandra’ newsletter to stay up to date on all 100 Women In Insurance and more. Join ‘The Pink Book’ Collective, private LinkedIn Group connecting women in insurance to find mentors, speaking opportunities and much more.

Sign up to Coffee with Sandra to stay up to date with all things 100 Women in Insurance. Summary In this episode, Sandra is joined by Crystal Riley, who entered the insurance industry by chance and has since built a successful career across underwriting, broking and claims. Crystal shares how exploring different roles helped her understand where she could thrive, and how feeling stuck prompted her to reflect on what she truly wanted from her career. She speaks openly about letting go of other people’s timelines, focusing on her strengths, and building a reputation around what she wanted to be known for. The conversation explores the power of difficult conversations and the everyday courage it takes to advocate for yourself at work. Crystal offers practical insight into how to prepare, stay grounded, and revisit conversations when they do not go to plan. She also reflects on the role of informal mentorship, the importance of self-reflection, and how learning to speak up has shaped both her professional and personal confidence. This is a story about awareness, growth and the clarity that comes from doing the work to define success on your own terms. Takeaways Exploring different roles in insurance can help you understand where you truly thrive Recognising when you feel stuck is a sign to pause and reflect Networking and mentorship are key to navigating career challenges Difficult conversations, though uncomfortable, often build trust and respect Preparation is essential for having difficult conversations It's okay to revisit conversations if they don't go as planned. Personal and professional growth often intertwine in the workplace Learning from both positive and negative experiences is valuable Confidence can be built through experiences in the industry About the guest Connect with Crystal Riley on LinkedIn About the host Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn Learn more about the 100 Women in Insurance Collective: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective

This episode is sponsored by Markel International. Summary In this episode, Sandra is joined by Sophie Forsyth and Philippa Hartrick-Morris, colleagues at Markel and this year’s riders in the Markel Magnolia Cup, the UK’s most prestigious charity horse race. Held each summer at the Qatar Goodwood Festival, this all-female amateur race celebrates women leading in business, sport, fashion and media. Their stories take us far beyond the racetrack. Sophie shares how a career in insurance led her back to horse riding after more than a decade away, while Philippa reflects on receiving the call while on maternity leave, and how training just 12 weeks after giving birth became a powerful way to rebuild strength and reconnect with herself and embrace a once-in-a-lifetime challenge. From renewal season and nursery drop-offs to four-minute planks and dawn gallops, this conversation explores what it means to say yes to something that scares you, and the transformation that follows. Sophie and Philippa are riding in support of Project Lehar, a King’s Trust International programme supporting girls in India to access education, build skills and create pathways to employment. This is a story about courage, visibility and what becomes possible when insurance creates space for women to grow. Takeaways The Markel Magnolia Cup is an all-female amateur race that has raised over £2.7 million for women’s causes since 2011. Training includes demanding fitness tests, race-day preparation and weekly riding sessions at professional yards, all balanced alongside full-time roles. Sophie and Philippa are only the second and third women from Markel ever to compete in the race. “Just say yes.” It’s the advice Sophie has followed throughout her career and one that’s led to challenge, growth and unexpected opportunities. Postpartum doesn’t have to mean pressing pause. Philippa’s journey shows how ambition and new motherhood can coexist with the right support. You don’t need experience to step forward. Both riders started from scratch, proving that courage and commitment count for more than credentials. Progress looks different for everyone. For some, it’s a promotion. For others, it’s holding a plank for four minutes and getting back in the saddle. None of it happens alone. From family to teammates, support made all the difference, especially on the hardest days. A career in insurance can open doors to extraordinary and unexpected places. About the guests Connect with Sophie Forsyth on LinkedIn Connect with Philippa Hartrick-Morris on LinkedIn Resources Donate to the riders’ JustGiving page Explore the 2025 Magnolia Cup lineup and cause Follow Markel International on LinkedIn and Instagram for race day coverage About the host Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn Learn more about the 100 Women in Insurance Collective: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective

Sign up to Coffee with Sandra to stay up to date with all things 100 Women in Insurance. This episode is sponsored by RPC. Summary In this live recording from event at RPC FIG Network, Sandra is joined by Sam Tymms for a powerful and honest conversation about what it really means to own your career. Sam shares reflections from a career spanning regulation, advisory and governance, and speaks openly about the common traps women fall into when it comes to progression. Too often, women wait to be tapped on the shoulder, rely on their employer to plot the next step, or assume success will be recognised without saying a word. Together, Sandra and Sam explore how career ownership starts with self-awareness, clarity and courage. From navigating networking with curiosity, to preparing for non-executive roles, this episode unpacks what it takes to get boardroom-ready and why authenticity and failure are essential parts of leadership. The conversation also dives into the evolving nature of diversity and inclusion in financial services, and how regulation, unconscious bias and cultural expectations continue to shape the experience of women in the industry. Whether you're just starting out, pivoting mid-career or stepping up into leadership, this episode is a reminder that you are your own best advocate, and that sisterhood, celebration and support go a long way. Takeaways Women often don't do enough to own their career Outsourcing your career management can hinder progress Success looks and feels different at every stage, and that’s OK Networking works best when you lead with curiosity Sisterhood is about support and empowerment Non-executive roles can provide valuable experience Know your value and be ready to articulate it in board setting Diversity and inclusion discussions are evolving Networking can be less intimidating with the right mindset Career ownership is essential for professional growth. Diversity and inclusion are ongoing challenges in financial services Regulatory interviews often lack awareness of gender dynamics Future leaders must be tech-savvy and self-aware Authenticity is crucial in leadership; accept your strengths and weaknesses Failure is a natural part of career growth Recognising personal value is essential for career advancement Cultural perceptions can influence women's career choices Self-doubt can create barriers to success Owning your career means challenging societal expectations Celebrating achievements fosters a supportive professional community About the Guest Connect with Sam Tymms on LinkedIn About the host Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn Learn more about the 100 Women in Insurance Collective: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective

Summary In this episode, Sandra is joined by Cristina Galindo for a thoughtful conversation on career transitions, sustainability, and the changing world of work. Cristina shares her journey from a career in HR across financial services and tech to her current focus on sustainability and talent. She reflects on the benefits and challenges of moving abroad, the realities of career breaks, and the importance of embracing change at any age or stage. From the rise of sustainability roles in insurance to the need for organisations to retain knowledge as professionals approach retirement, Cristina brings fresh insight into how careers, and workplaces, are evolving. Together, Sandra and Cristina explore the concept of the “empty box,” a space for reflection and reinvention, and discuss why transferable skills, introspection, and storytelling are essential in today’s job market. They also tackle the shifting language of CVs, how to balance legal compliance with company culture, and why kindness and performance are not mutually exclusive. This episode is packed with practical advice and quiet encouragement, for anyone navigating change, rethinking their purpose, or creating more human-centred ways of working. Takeaways It's never too late to change careers or pursue new opportunities Moving abroad can be a great learning opportunity but comes with challenges The traditional linear career path is becoming less common Career breaks can develop leadership, negotiation and project management skills The "empty box" is a space to pause, reflect and explore new directions before taking your next step CVs need to evolve to focus on skills, strengths and stories, not just job titles Introspection helps you reconnect with your values and design a career that fits with your authentic self The job market is changing rapidly, with sustainability roles expanding across insurance and beyond People are living and working longer, but many organisations are not prepared for longer careers Knowledge retention is a growing challenge as senior professionals retire without transition plans Equal and inclusive parental leave policies send a powerful message about what a company values Kindness and high performance can coexist Creating human-centered workplaces enhances employee loyalty About the guest Connect with Cristina on LinkedIn About the host Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn Learn more about the 100 Women in Insurance Collective: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective