A career in diversity at Allianz
Breaking through barriers and embracing diverse talent brings rich and diverse perspectives to the insurance industry. This is evident at Allianz, and we are proud to offer women and gender diverse people career opportunities to develop and thrive. We explore more of this with Jo, who shares her thoughts on three decades in the insurance industry.
From engineering to insurance
Reflecting on her education, Jo realised that she hadn’t taken a traditional route to insurance. Through her graduate program, she discovered her passion for insurance, underwriting and claims.
"My background is actually in civil engineering. I did a degree with honours, but I knew halfway through that I didn't want to be an engineer. I knew I wanted to work with a team and be around people. I got a start in property underwriting, working my way up over five years to ultimately lead that team”.
When Jo joined Allianz in 2017 as National Relationship Manager, she enjoyed five years working on strategy and senior stakeholder engagement in the general insurance space. When the role of State Distribution Manager VIC/TAS came up in Melbourne, Jo jumped at the opportunity to build Allianz’s culture and capabilities.
“I lead an amazing team of account managers, engaging with brokers, and servicing the market, which is an absolute juggernaut. We deal with international and strategic brokers, mid-corp and large networks. It’s a varied, interesting and exciting portfolio for our team.”
Supportive leadership and mentors who have your back
Jo emphasises the importance of mentorship, and how it plays a crucial role in developing in your career, which is especially evident in the leadership culture at Allianz.
"I have been very fortunate that I've had great mentors who have taken me under their wing and truly championed my development as a woman working in insurance. I’ve always worked hard, and done a great job, but having people back you along the way is so impactful in a career. Professional development forms such a big part of our workplace culture, and leaders genuinely want people to succeed. We’re all part of a high-performing team, in a complex industry."
At Allianz, having the desire and drive to learn and develop oneself underpins how our people thrive at work. As a leader, Jo believes in the vital importance of two-way feedback, asking her team regularly what they need and how she can develop her leadership skills and style, believing that everyone’s perspective contributes to how someone can grow in their career.
The evolution of women in insurance
Reflecting on her long career in insurance, Jo is quick to point out the changes for women working in the industry, and how Allianz is a welcoming place for everyone with opportunities for development all over the world.
"When I started in insurance 30 years ago, women worked in assistant and administrative roles. Today, especially at Allianz, it’s pretty much a 50/50 split. Everyone feels like they’re supported to develop and succeed. Women have been taking on roles as underwriters, brokers, and senior leaders, bringing diverse perspectives to the industry here and overseas. Allianz has such a strong, global brand, so if you want to work overseas, or learn best practices from industry leaders all over the world, you can do that with Allianz."
We care about everything that makes you, you
Do you identify as LGBTQ+ or gender diverse? Would you like to discuss accessibility or workplace adjustments prior to applying? If you have any questions about working at Allianz, or if you'd like support with your application, we're here to help!
