A path to leadership in insurance

It’s a tale as old as time in insurance; Tegan, like a lot of people, ‘fell into insurance’. But she hasn’t looked back. 

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    “While I was finishing high school, I worked in retail which taught me up to understand how to communicate with different people and work with customers. I wasn’t sure exactly what I wanted to do as a career, so after completing school, I went to business college. While I was there, I found job in the newspaper (the old-fashioned way!) and got my start as an assistant underwriter for a residential strata provider. I’m glad I fell into insurance, because I’ve loved it and have made lifelong friends.” 

As a Senior Underwriter, Tegan views her work quite simply: insurance is about helping people. She feels rewarded by the complex, interesting work her team are across in the Commercial space.  

“I was looking for a new challenge with more responsibility, so I joined Allianz as an Underwriter in the Dealer Underwriting Team, working with brokers on supporting and retaining clients by assessing risks to find the best possible outcomes for both Allianz and the dealership. Underwriting is a great space to work in; there’s something new, every day. You’re helping people, customers, brokers, dealerships, etc. You’re always finding solutions and learning new things because we work across so many different product lines. It’s very interesting, rewarding work.” 

Tegan knows and appreciates the value of strong leadership and inspiring mentors because she herself has experienced these things at Allianz. And now, she’s paying it forward to the next generation and is quick to call out the importance of inspiring leaders, particularly for young women, starting out in insurance.  

“I’ve always been surrounded by incredibly strong, knowledgeable women at Allianz. I’ve had many mentors and supporters throughout my time here. I’m a mum, and a lot of my colleagues are parents, so it’s nice to see other people who have walked your path before you to learn from, to help guide you, to inspire you. They give you feedback, share their knowledge and instil confidence in you. Mentors, particularly for young women, are invaluable.”  

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    “A new role or company can be daunting, especially in the dealer space where we have fifteen different lines of business. I’ve proudly been involved in projects to create manuals and resources to support new starters because I’ve been in their shoes - I’ve benefited greatly from the wonderful, welcoming culture at Allianz, so paying it forward has been important to me. Nowadays, I find myself role modelling behaviours I learnt from my own mentors, which is very rewarding.” 

When asked to share what she values most at Allianz, Tegan shares that it all comes down to our people and the way we work to support each other, and the community. 

“I’m a mum of twin girls, so balancing home and work can be tricky. We’re very lucky at Allianz, because we have a flexible approach to working. It means I can do things for and with my kids, like doctors’ appointments and attend school concerts, without dropping the ball at work or missing out on development opportunities. I’m a part of our Carer’s Connection, which is an internal community for parents or people with caring responsibilities, where we share tips and tricks, and resources. It’s so great to relate to colleagues and share the experience of being a parent with each other.” 

“I’m very passionate about giving back to the community, which is a big focus at Allianz. We’re encouraged to use our volunteer leave and support causes that matter to us. I’m very proud of Allianz’s partnership with the Olympics and Paralympics, so I’ve volunteered at events supporting athletes and para-athletes. It’s so inspiring to meet these people and celebrate their incredible skill and achievements.” 

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