Be a champion of self advocacy

In a career spanning almost 40 years, Kerri Major, Senior Underwriter Dealer, says there’s never been a dull moment.

  • “Underwriting is always evolving, that’s what keeps me engaged” Kerri shares. “Just as society changes, so too does the insurance industry.”

    In 2007, Kerri came to a crossroads in her career, having been made redundant by her then employer. Unsure about what to do next, an opportunity arose in the Dealer area, at Allianz.

    "I had some experience working with dealers in my previous company, so I interviewed for the role at Allianz," Kerri says. “As it turns out, it was a great decision. The Dealer Commercial underwriting team at Allianz is fantastic.”

A champion of self-advocacy

 

Reflecting on her approach to her career, Kerri says the biggest lesson she’s learned is that it's okay to put herself first – a skill she’s still working on today.

“I have come a long way in my journey,” she shares. “Originally, I would put myself last. The job had to be done and the work had to be completed, whatever the cost. I have since learned that I do not need to feel guilty if I take time for myself. “I have come a long way in my mental health journey,” she shares. “At the beginning of my career, I would always put work before my own health and needs, but as I’ve grown older and wiser, I’ve realised that couldn’t be further from best practice. So now, I feel empowered to take time for myself, without feeling guilty or pressured.”

  •  

     

    "Allianz has a big focus on mental health and wellbeing, and it’s great that they encourage employees to be mindful about those things, too. I know that by looking after myself, I’ll deliver my best work and be able to look after other people, too.”

Kerri’s advice to young professionals entering the workforce is to be open to learning and new opportunities; but most importantly, always be mindful of your health and wellbeing.

“I am from a generation where the word ‘mentor’ was not used, especially for women. Looking back, I would say that there was not one guiding light in shaping my career – it was more a case of seizing moments and opportunities with many people. It was more a case of recognising and taking the opportunity to learn and connect with as many people as I could. But today, workplaces are very different, which is a great thing!”

“I tell young professionals to have ambition and to work hard. I encourage them to ask questions and choose paths that support their career goals. If you make a wrong turn or something doesn’t work out, don’t think of it as a failure but as an opportunity to learn. And of course, remember to look after yourself – your mental health and wellbeing are incredibly important.”

Find your next opportunity

At Allianz, whatever matters to you, matters to us. That’s why when you join us, you can count on benefits that strengthen all of you: physically, mentally, socially and financially.

Explore the latest career opportunities.
VIEW JOBS