QBE's Lavinia Johnson discusses creating a space for everyone

QBE European Operations has a vision to empower its people to be their best by creating an environment where everyone's contribution and voice is valued, where there is a collective sense of purpose and a community of empowered individuals working collaboratively.

QBE European Operations sponsored the Women in Insurance conference held in London, United Kingdom, where QBE employees were in attendance. At the conference, QBE European Operations Director of Underwriting for International Casualty, Lavinia Johnson, featured as a speaker on the panel, Creating a space for everyone. Lavinia has a wealth of underwriting experience across the UK, International and US markets. She joined QBE in 2015 as Portfolio Manager and was promoted to Director in 2021. She is part of QBE's International Markets Executive Management team and holds responsibility for developing the market leading Casualty book that comprises all territories excluding the UK.

Building a supportive environment for leaders in insurance

The session highlighted effective and innovative strategies for creating a workplace that is both welcoming and empowering, and the prominent role employees can play in driving them.

The panel discussed what it takes to build a supportive environment for both emerging and established leaders in insurance, what the best strategies are for crafting a hybrid culture that encourages participation by everyone, and provided insights into communication that fosters openness and empowers teams.

Discussions highlighted that it takes one leader to start a shift in a company’s culture, to encourage active participation by all members of the team, to build an inclusive culture, and to support the celebration of diversity.

"We are proud to have sponsored this year's event, and we look forward to hearing what our employees have to share with the rest of the business," said QBE European Operations.

Empowering women and allies

Women in Insurance UK welcomed the insurance industry to reconnect face-to-face for a live summit dedicated to empowering women and allies, developing a new generation of leaders, and advancing the careers of diverse insurance professionals.

The event provided insurance professionals with an opportunity to build new bonds, explore leadership strategies, and get inspired to make small (and big) changes in their careers, and most importantly, work with a purpose in an industry that is constantly innovating to be more digital, exceed clients’ needs and provide equal opportunities for men and women.

The event featured impactful speakers from leading companies, an agenda packed with powerful sessions on hot-button topics, and dedicated time for networking and relationship building. Women in Insurance UK celebrated the resilience of the insurance industry and the uniting as a community once again.

Supporting diverse insurance professionals

At the Women in Insurance conference QBE European Operations employees had opportunities to unpack the skills needed to stand out as an insurance leader and take the next step in their career.

Employees explored how they can achieve growth and increase their exposure in a hybrid working environment, and were able to network face-to-face with women and allies alike, as well as connecting with some of the industry’s most elite leaders.

The Women in Insurance conference also provided opportunities for QBE employees to engage in a deeper conversation around establishing an inclusive culture that supports diverse professionals.