Issuu

RESILIENCE

OUR

JOURNEY

TOGETHER

E D I T I O N 16

DIB WOMENS HISTORY MONTH

BERKLEY INSURANCE ASIA

We are so proud of the wonderful women at Berkley Insurance Asia! We are fortunate to have the opportunity to work with the amazing women who have led the business to where we are today. We celebrate with them their achievements and contributions on International Women’s Day with this year’s theme “Break the Bias.” #BreakTheBias #IWD2022

WRBC Charitable Match Program TO SUPPORT THE PEOPLE OF

UKRAINE

W. R. Berkley Corporation (“WRBC”) is pleased to announce a charitable match program to assist the people in the Ukraine. WRBC will match dollar for dollar up to $200,000 for each charity.

BERKLEY EMPLOYEES HAVE DONATED A TOTAL OF $169,594 Americares — www.americares.org.wrberkleyukraine Provides medicine, medical supplies, self-sustaining medical teams as well as health training and resources.

Project C.U.R.E. — www.projectcure.org/WRBerkley Provides medical supplies, equipment and services to doctors and nurses as well as volunteer health care providers.

Samaritans Purse — www.fundraise.samaritanspurse.org/WRBerkley Is establishing an Emergency Field Hospital on the outskirts of Lviv, in western Ukraine providing Disaster Assistance Response Team members—including doctors, nurses, and logistics and other personnel. The field hospital will have two operating rooms, with capacity for 14 major surgeries or 30 minor surgeries per day. There will be nearly 60 total inpatient beds, including four intensive care unit beds and four step-down beds. The emergency room can handle 100 patients per day. The facility also has a pharmacy and its own water and sanitation system.

THE BERKLEY “DIB” LOGO

Our DIB logo represents how all of us, like the unique branches on a tree, may grow in different directions, come from different social and professional backgrounds, ethnic backgrounds and genders or speak different languages, yet our roots grow as one solid Berkley family.

Do you want to add the Berkley Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging (“DIB”) logo to your signature line in Outlook? •

Some companies use the signature manager tool. These companies have their icons set at the company level so individuals cannot change their icons/signature line. CLICK HERE to see if your company uses Exclaimer, the signature manager tool TIP: To update the signature manager tool for an entire company, please contact Tammie Heeren and she will help coordinate this change

•

For companies that are not using the signature manager tool, individuals are required to change their own icons/signature line CLICK HERE for instructions on how to change your own signature line

Please Welcome Our New

DIB MEMBER RENAE GARY Admiral Insurance Group

I was born in Jamaica and moved to the United States as a young girl. While in middle school, I stood out because of my accent. I remember classmates teasing me. They hadn’t met someone from a different country. It was at a young age that I developed a passion and interest in learning and sharing my cultural experiences with others. I graduated from University of Pennsylvania in 1998 and landed one of my first jobs in Human Resources. I spent the first 15 years of my career working for a growing Clinical Research organization. It was through that experience that I had the opportunity to travel internationally and work with global teams. I also realized how integral HR’s role was is in shaping a company’s culture through its people and the employee experience. During my 20 plus years career in Human Resources, I’ve had the opportunity to work in various leadership roles and different industries, including pharmaceutical, healthcare and now insurance. I joined the Berkley team as part of Admiral Insurance group in 2021! My work experience has afforded me the privilege to work with dynamic leaders and diverse global teams. Those experiences gave me a greater appreciation for the importance of sharing knowledge, being open to new ideas and how those actions can drive innovation. When I was asked to be a part of the DIB Committee I was extremely honored! It aligns with my passion and beliefs around embracing differences. Our industry and the market are also shifting. Being a part of the DIB committee enables us to promote a culture of inclusivity and supports Berkley’s vision of driving innovation. On a personal note, I currently live in Philadelphia with my 11-year old son who keeps me busy. I enjoy playing basketball with my son, traveling and entertaining family and friends!

Celebrating

34 YEARS at BERKLEY We would like to thank:

Margaret Convey for her many years of service to W. R. Berkley Corporation

You will be retiring from Berkley after 34 years on May 31, 2022, what has been your most memorable experience at Berkley? “I have to say the most memorable experience(s) I’ve had with W. R. Berkley Corporation is getting to know the Chairman, Rob Berkley, Senior Management and all of the employees on the team at Berkley. I believe this culture stands out from any other company that I have experienced or have heard about from newly hired employees. I also value the generosity given to people in need. During our holiday party, Gingerbread Houses are auctioned off and the money goes to the baker(s) choice of the charity and matched by the Company. In addition, money is raised by all of the operating units in addition to corporate when a disaster occurs, the latest being the war on Ukraine.”

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “I started working for the Chairman in his private partnership, Interlaken Capital Services on January 4, 1988. I was hired as an accounts payable clerk and had been given many different hats to wear during my tenure. I was excited and yet nervous with some of these career moves, such as; learning how to do taxes and then moving into the Human Resources Department. I was able to move through my most difficult moments by taking classes and working with managers that were willing to be patient and offering guidance to me through the years.”

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “The person who has inspired and supported me the most during my career is my manager. When she became the SVP of Human Resources, I had been working with another manager that was more of a benefits person than Human Resources. Knowing my background, she helped me grow into the Human Resources Manager which included some very difficult learning issues; such as dealing with employee relations.”

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “I feel very fortunate to have walked into Interlaken Capital Services 34 years ago. There were times I was nervous about my career, Interlaken Capital had taken a different path at one point and I was concerned I would lose my job. I knew the people I was working for and kept my faith that if I stayed the course and continued to be transparent and a team player I would have a better chance of staying with the company. This is the advice I would give any new employee starting their career, be respectful to all of the people around you, be a team player and be transparent. Trust is a very important value.”

“Retirement is bitter sweet when I have worked with such wonderful people while an employee at W. R. Berkley Corporation.”

Celebrating

34 YEARS at BERKLEY

We would like to thank:

Donna Syko for her many years of service to W. R. Berkley Corporation

You will be retiring from Berkley after 34 years on March 31, 2022, what has been your most memorable experience at Berkley? “There have been so many over the past 34 years! Where do I begin? Meeting such wonderful co-workers and working for a company that believes everything counts and everyone matters has been highly gratifying.”

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “Being identified by everyone in the department as the “most creative one in the group”, and being asked to come up with creative ideas for group costumes for our Halloween party and ideas for the annual gingerbread house decorating was a fun challenge! But seriously, most times employees and co-workers are coming to me with a question, looking for a solution to a particular problem or just asking for guidance. Being able to utilize my problem-solving skills and being able to assist them has been very rewarding.”

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “The person that has inspired and supported me the most has also been a wonderful mentor. This person is a great mediator and amazing leader. As I progressed in my own career, I tried to incorporate many of her tactics, including the way she resolved conflicts and her high level of organization in both my personal and professional life.”

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “In any industry, stay flexible. I think particularly as women, we’re so hard on ourselves. Find a group of people who inspire you. Cultivate relationships with people you admire in the company.

“In any industry, stay flexible. I think particularly as women, we’re so hard on ourselves. Find a group of people who inspire you. Cultivate relationships with people you admire in the company.”

RESILIENCE Also, as we celebrate the thousands of women that work at Berkley, we encourage each of you to continue to practice the Innovation Behavior of Resilience. Zoe teaches us to bounce back when we make mistakes and to keep trying!

Can you name the three different types of failure? Do you know how to cultivate a learning attitude? Would you like to learn more about embracing the success cycle? Consider viewing the Skillsoft course “Learning from Failure” if you’d like to grow your Resilience Innovation Behavior. Do you want to learn more about the Berkley Innovation Behavior of Resilience? Consider becoming Berkley certified in the Resilience Behavior. In addition to the original Berkley Behavior Certifications, the 2.0 Certifications are also available for a deeper dive!

LINK TO INNOVATION CERTIFICATIONS

Watch for exciting new content on resilience coming to I-Lab next month!

The Edge

Have you listened to The Edge yet? The Edge is an internal Berkley Innovation Podcast that launched in 2022. Season 1 has been off to a fascinating start. We kicked off the launch featuring Rob Berkley, President and Chief Executive Officer of W. R. Berkley Corporation. The next two podcasts featured Emily Urban, President of Berkley Life Sciences, and Tracey Vispoli, President of Berkley Cyber Risk Solutions. New episodes will be launching monthly, so keep an eye on your inbox for updates from Berkley Innovation!

To listen to the Edge podcast, click here or scan the QR code in the logo to listen on your mobile device.

Celebrating Some of Our

GREAT WOMEN LEADERS at Berkley

The following pages will highlight their careers in insurance, experiences and people that have inspired them. We are grateful for their time and shared thoughts. We hope you will be inspired through them.

Amber Cole Director, Business Systems & Project Management Berkley Regional Shared Services

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “My first “insurance” experience was handling claims for a large rental car company. I found the opportunity by chance when I realized that a career in sales was not where I wanted to stay. It was where I first started to understand the benefits offered through insurance, and the service we provide to impacted parties. That lead me to a national carrier where I had several roles in claims, underwriting, and sales support. And eventually led me to BTS almost 15 years ago.”

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “I have had the privilege to be a part of so many great moments - the launch of the first Regional company on PolicyStar, followed by every other Regional company. The technical launch of Berkley Southeast Insurance Group by integrating a new company onto an existing platform. Being an active participant in the Des Moines Corporate Games to help BTS with their division for several years in a row. But the most memorable opportunity is to be part of employee development and growth - one of the most rewarding aspects of my role.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “The past 15 years at WRBC have been full of many challenges - some larger than others. But I have never had to face a challenge alone in this organization. I can always count on my peers and colleagues to partner with me. They have helped me learn new skills and together we have explored new ways to accomplish the impossible. I am grateful for everything I have learned so far, and know that each day is filled with an opportunity to learn something new..”

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “I am fortunate to have met several people who have believed in me and encouraged me along my path. Many have taught me the tools I need to be successful, and not just provided me the answers. And I have an amazing mentor who challenges me at the right times - while praising me every step along the way.”

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “Never stop learning! Some of the best advice I got early in my insurance career was to invest in understanding the fundamentals of insurance – and then continue building upon it. I always joke that you don’t realize how much you don’t know about insurance until you start studying it! Even now, I continue to look for opportunities to learn and grow as the industry continues to change.”

“Never stop learning! I continue to look for opportunities to learn and grow as the industry continues to change.”

Amee Yunn Vice President Fine Art + Collectibles Underwriting Berkley Asset Protection

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “I was curious about how risk is priced and am interested in our industry’s economic and social impact. My first role was as a personal lines underwriter at a large P&C carrier.”

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “March 2020’s sudden switch to remote work during the pandemic surprised me by how easily everyone adjusted to video meetings, and that business continued and flourished. The past two years have been memorable showing how adaptable people are in finding ways to work together.”

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “Changing careers from academia to insurance was a big leap, because I was an art historian specialized in medieval and Renaissance Florence. People wondered if was willing and able to learn, and why. I was persistent and, importantly, had mentors who made the career change possible..”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “So many people have helped me, and continue to do so, that it’s difficult to describe one individual. I think of them as a team, and they have all been kind, knowledgeable, and realistic. I’m inspired by their trust in me.”

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “Meet new people and travel more.”

“So many people have helped me, and continue to do so, that it’s difficult to describe one individual. I think of them as a team...I’m inspired by their trust in me.”

Beth A. H. Strapp SVP, Financial Lines Segment Leader Berkley Healthcare

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “Like many people that found themselves in the insurance industry in the 1990’s, I was not aspiring to work in the industry. My undergraduate degree is in Education and I expected to go into teaching. However, at some point during my Education studies I realized that teaching wasn’t for me; I felt it was too much responsibility for a young person and I didn’t have the ‘wisdom of the ages’ to offer students or their parents. Luckily, my mother insisted that I intern at her employer, The Travelers, during the summers. I must have liked it because I ended up working for The Travelers not only on my summer breaks but also during my winter breaks. As graduation approached, I still wasn’t thinking of insurance as a career, however, Travelers offered me a job before I graduated. Thinking I would find my way back to teaching I took the job and my insurance career began. My first job was as a Group Universal Life Customer Service Representative. I answered policy and coverage questions for large corporate insureds and processed loan requests against the cash value portion of the coverage. At some point over the last 32 years I realized that I enjoyed the insurance industry and it is a good fit for my skillsets; it has even given me the opportunity to “teach” others along the way. Reflecting on my career thus far, I am truly grateful for my insurance career choice, which didn’t seem to start out as a choice but has brought me great professional and personal satisfaction over the years. On the teaching front, while I never found my way back to teaching, I have stayed in touch with Education in other ways. For nine years I served on the board of a private school and as its chair for four years, and I am currently serving on the board of another private school. Both board positions have kept me meaningfully involved in Education.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

“I am truly grateful for my insurance career choice, which didn’t seem to start out as a choice but has brought me great professional and personal satisfaction over the years.”

What has been your most memorable experience thus far? “This is a hard question to answer as I have had so many memorable moments at Berkley over the past 5 ½ years and I see so many more ahead of me. Berkley has given me the opportunity to do what I love – build and lead. It has been such a gift to have people believe in my vision and the opportunity to build something from scratch. Watching Berkley Healthcare Financial Lines emerge from a business plan on a piece of paper to a bustling operation employing 25 people, a suite of policy forms and services, and a profitable book of business has been amazing. There are so many memorable moments like hiring our first underwriter—Tom Ravn, to introducing our first product at the Healthcare PLUS Conference led by Ryan Reeves, to launching our new risk management services platform, Script (like our post on LinkedIn!) driven by Lisa Quesenberry, it is hard to choose a most memorable experience. However, I can say the most meaningful and rewarding moments have come from employees who have said how grateful they are to be working at Berkley Healthcare where they feel respected and appreciated, and love our people-centric culture..”

Beth A. H. Strapp (continued)

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “At a previous employer, I was told that I was passed over for a vice president appointment even though I had had all the requirements (scope of responsibility and direct reports) for a man who did not. My boss (a man) relayed to me that he told upper management and HR that supported the decision saying I would “understand”. I didn’t and I told him so. This was over 25 years ago and my recourse was limited. I was determined to get the position and recognition I earned as well as the financial compensation that accompanied it. I pursued the title, continuing to ask for the position and demonstrate my work warranted it. It was two more years before I received the vice president designation (under a female boss).”

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “My first boss at the Travelers was a change-maker for me. She was a self-confident, funny, and savvy business woman who had re-entered the work force when her children were in high school. In an era where many women ‘didn’t have to work’, and she certainly didn’t for financial reasons, she chose to work because she wanted to be challenged and knew she had a lot to give to an employer and as a manager and mentor. She was my supervisor while I was an intern and later the one who offered me my first insurance job. She imparted many pearls of wisdom - one of which was to try to do your job so well that your work your way out of it. She was saying don’t try to protect your job by making it seem that you’re in disposable but instead do your job so well and improve things that your employer (or future employer) will want you to promote you. While I have lost touch with her over the years, her early guidance as well as the faith and confidence she had in me were foundational for my career. Thank you Mary Jo Bermann!.”

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “I would tell young Beth that no one expects you to have all the answers or skills that a seasoned professional has, especially as you start out. I wish I understood that many people want to help and mentor young people and all you have to do is ask. There was so much to learn from other people regardless of what industry or profession they are in. I would say, don’t be afraid to ask someone to coffee to pick their brains about how they made their way in the world, what they would tell their younger selves, what was a life-changing moment for you, what would you change about your career, what was the best and worst decision you ever made, etc.? Of course, you can ask specific question of specific people too. As I tell my children, the worst that someone can say is no – nothing lost on your part but maybe something gained. The point is, be curious and be brave.”

BERKLEY España

Marta Beneytez, PA underwriter, and Esmeralda Dunn, GL underwriter participated in this round table from Berkley Spain, and the organizer is Patricia Sánchez, Marketing Manager.

From the marketing department we organize every year a round table discussion with a media that focuses on women in insurance, the media is called Very Safe, and the round table is called Young, but very safe. Berkley Spain underwriters under the age of 30, and women brokers from the Spanish market, also under 30, participate in the round table, and current issues are discussed to assess the point of view of young women on aspects such as digitization, the new regulations, the market situation, etc.

Cathy Santiago Senior Vice President, Director of Underwriting Operations Berkley Design Professional

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “My first role in insurance was as a policy typist. My attraction to the insurance industry started after that position as I realized there were so many career paths available, I just needed to find the right fit for me.”

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “Starting up our new BDP program and getting to production was the most memorable and rewarding experience. That first binder, when all the pieces of our work came together, was really exciting.”

“I have been fortunate to have managers throughout my career that recognize my strengths and encourage me to keep working at areas where I can improve and grow.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “Producers often times will test new underwriters. I experienced this early in my career. My challenge was to be able to make difficult underwriting decisions that were respected. I learned that when I was able to explain the reasons for my decisions, display a good understanding of the factors involved and options, I was able to gain their trust and acceptance.”

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “I have been fortunate to have managers throughout my career that recognize my strengths and encourage me to keep working at areas where I can improve and grow. “

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “Keep learning. Re-evaluate your path more often.”

Clare Himmer Chief Executive Officer Berkley Re UK Limited

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “I fell into insurance, following an internship at the Allianz in Munich during a university year abroad, which gave me a head start on my resume and allowed me to gain a graduate trainee role with Munich Re in London. I had 2 years of fantastic training in every aspect of the business, from accounting and claims to all facets of underwriting and business operations, as well as spending a few months with a client and with a broker to get a real 360 of our industry across the value chain. After that my first role was underwriting facultative and direct contingency, jewelers’ block and miscellaneous classes, as well as representing HQ in London on their miscellaneous treaty business.”

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “The warm welcome I received on my first day in the office in London, and the offers of support from everyone I have met at WRB so far.”

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “Trying to set up and hire new teams around the globe to build the international treaty operations at a start-up, during a time of M&A when hiring freezes were suddenly imposed at random. I overcame it by perseverance, lucky timing, using my networks to find great teams, but it did hamper the growth of the book and we missed being able to scale at the peak of the market as a result.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “My first boss on the treaty side, Gonda Lauritzen at Hannover Re, was a woman ahead of her time. In addition to being able to learn from her astute and laser-like long-tail underwriting skills, navigating the London market and handling the reality of being a female in a male dominated world, she also taught me the mantra I have lived by ever since: “love it, change it, or leave it”, as well as championing women, diversity and inclusion, part time, flexi and home working (in the mid to late 90s, decades ahead of others, to attract working parents back to work).”

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “Always be true to yourself, be humble, learn from others, take every opportunity to learn and network. Those networks last for years.”

“Always be true to yourself, be humble, learn from others, take every opportunity to learn and network. Those networks last for years.”

Diana Bernardini Underwriting Manager Berkley Southeast Insurance Group Berkley Re Singapore

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “I was in retail management and was looking for an industry change. I spoke with a headhunter who was looking to fill a commercial underwriter role for an insurance company. At that time, the company was looking for candidates with management experience and they were willing to train them in the industry. I started with 13 other people with various backgrounds and we went through a three-month training program that merged forms and industry training with desk experience. I was immediately attracted to the analytical nature of the work and the interaction with the agents.”

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “I was hired during the start of the pandemic so I was not able to meet my team in person until about 18 months after I started with BSIG. It was exciting to meet every one in person and build on the relationships that were started under lockdown. I have a dedicated and dynamic team, and having the opportunity to work with such talented people is a career highlight for me.”

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “In 2016, my husband and I left our individual careers to start our own business. We worked daily, side by side, in a high volume, high pressure environment. While I had managed and worked with hundreds of people throughout out my career, working with my husband proved to be the most challenging professional situation I have ever lived. I came back to insurance in 2020 (he’s still running our business)!”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “I have been fortunate to work with many inspiring and supportive people throughout my career. Co-workers, managers, agents, administrative staff, each have inspired me and taught me in different ways. Everyone has a story and adversity that they have overcome. When I have taken the time to listen to that story, I have learned and used that knowledge to help develop myself, and by extension, my career.”

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “Don’t underestimate the value of developing relationships throughout the organization. Pay close attention to the behaviors of the people in the roles you would like to pursue. Every interaction you have with another human being has the potential to teach you something about yourself, about your business, about life. The difference between success and failure is ALWAYS in the details.”

“I have been fortunate to work with many inspiring and supportive people throughout my career.”

Ellen Wallace Vice President Human Resources Berkley One

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “I was working at the French Library in Boston in a very fun but dead-end job. A recruiter reached out to me about an Underwriting Assistant job at a major insurer. It offered the potential for career growth, but I admit my first thought was “Insurance? Sounds dull.” I sure had that wrong! I’ve had an exciting ride that has taken me from underwriting financial institutions and managing commercial lines, to leading Marketing at that major carrier, and eventually into my best career move yet— Human Resources—where I have the privilege of helping awesome people be more awesome.”

What has been your most memorable experiences at Berkley thus far? “It’s hard to narrow this down to one experience because I’ve had so many! I will never forget how Berkley One has grown since we booked our very first policy in November 2017. I am especially proud of the team of amazing employees we have amassed in my five years here. I look at the faces on our All Hands Calls and marvel at the passion, dedication and expertise of the people who have joined our adventure. It’s exhilarating, energizing and humbling.”

“I’ll never forget how Berkley One has grown since we booked our very first policy in November 2017.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “I was running Marketing for the Boston branch of my prior employer and my children, Caleb and Joshua, were young and busy. I really struggled with balance and, after much consideration, moved to a position that required less travel and entertainment. I worried that I had sidelined my career and know I disappointed some who counted on me, a woman, to stay in that big job. Well, my worries—and theirs— were unfounded. I continued to cast a big shadow. And I grew my career in ways I never imagined, that were highly satisfying, and that contributed greatly to the business. As important, I was able to be very present for and engaged with my sons.”

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “Just one? Impossible! Early in my career, a manager gave me some incredibly direct feedback that was difficult to hear but a tremendous gift. It catalyzed me into seeing, thinking and acting differently. In my transition from the Marketing into HR, I had a colleague who saw the passion I had to help build successful people and teams and took a chance that I’d bloom in HR. I’d like to think he was right! These two former colleagues are dear friends and allies to the present day. Finally, the lure to join WRB was the opportunity to work for and with Kathy Tierney. We’d had fleeting opportunities to collaborate at our prior employer, and I knew from her I would learn to think bigger, act bravely and contribute more broadly. These last five years have been a master class at being better and doing better every day.”

What advice would you give to your self starting out in the industry? “Be open to changes, challenges and curveballs. While they often don’t feel great in the moment, some of my best career opportunities were the result of them. Being agile and flexible can take you to some amazing journeys.”

Gabrielle Eaton Claims Operations Manager Continental Western Group

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “After graduating from the University of Iowa with a degree in Communication Studies, I was not sure what to do next. I had done an internship with an advertising agency and knew that wasn’t the route I wanted to go. I had worked at Wal-Mart all through college and had been asked to take its management program, but that career path lacked work-life balance. It was my Mom, a high school teacher, that suggested I look at insurance jobs in the Des Moines area. I had no idea I’d make it a career. I signed a lease on an apartment before I even had a job offer, but I had a good feeling about the interview I’d had with Continental Western Group. It felt like insurance claims would be a good fit with my customer service experience while opening up a new career path. I was hired that next day as a Claim Representative Trainee. I’ve been with CWG ever since.”

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “There have been many moments in my 21 years with CWG that have had an impact on me, but I’d have to say that my participation in the Claims Workstation implementation project in 2002 shaped the course of my career. It was during that project that the light bulb went off. I knew that I wanted to be involved in the technology and operations side of the business.”

“I’ve been fortunate to find many people that have been in my corner when I need them, at CWG and sister companies.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “Multi-tasking, plain and simple. I spent the first fifteen or so years of my career trying to succeed at multi-tasking, like it was a badge of honor to be good at it. The Guidewire ClaimCenter project put the brakes to that. There were so many things coming at me from so many different directions that it was freeing to say to people that I needed to be able to focus on a single thing, for a specific amount of time, and then move on to the next one, in order to give them the best work product possible. I’m not cured. But it is much easier today to speak to specific expectations and time commitments and not feel pressured to prove I can juggle it all, because no one can.”

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “I’ve been fortunate to find many people that have been in my corner when I needed them, at CWG and sister companies. My greatest support team has been three amazing women, all current or former CWG associates. We collectively call ourselves “the Divas” (with a wink) because we are the least Diva-like women I know. Over the course of the 20 years I’ve known these women, they have been the first to step up to help, the first to call me out on something I’ve got wrong, and the first to laugh with or wipe a tear with about our lives, both professional and personal. Everyone needs that group of people. I don’t know what I’d do without them.”

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “The best question you can ask yourself, when building work relationships is “What can I learn from this person?” Not as a specific mentoring or skill building question, but as a life lesson. Even a negative experience with a coworker or supervisor can be deeply meaningful, if you take it in and learn from it.”

Gaby Donnan Senior Actuarial Analyst Berkley North Pacific

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “My junior year in High School, I took the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) as part of the high school curriculum and my top job recommendation was an Actuary. I’d never heard about the profession but that summer I cold called actuaries in the Seattle area and managed to line up job shadowing two actuaries for a day. Based on my interaction with those two individuals, I realized that I’d found my future career. My first role was as an Actuarial Intern with Berkley North Pacific the summer of my junior year at Washington State University. I was hired onto the team full-time after graduating the following semester.”

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “One summer, the BNP Health and Wellness committee organized a White-Water Rafting trip for BNP employees and their family at a reduced fee. We all drove in to the office then car-pooled to the rafting pickup location and rode a bus out to the starting point. Many relationships developed that day and friends were made of coworkers through the shared experience. I enjoyed meeting the family of those I work next to every day.”

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “As part of the actuarial profession, a series of exams need to be passed to reach certain designations. I struggled a lot in 2019 and failed both exams I sat for that year. Having studied several hundred hours for each of those exams, I felt disheartened. I continue to work toward my goal of ACAS and remind myself that Resilience is key and that I can absolutely reach my goals.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “My husband Denver has a been a huge support and ally along my actuarial journey. He believed in me long before we married. During our time in college, we were still dating and I was struggling financially while putting myself through college. I’d been studying for my second actuarial exam but when it came time to register, I didn’t have several hundred dollars to sign up. He paid my registration fee and said he knew I would pass and that it would all be water under the bridge later. We celebrate all our wins together and this November we’ll be celebrating our 10-year anniversary.”

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “Be yourself. You don’t need to limit your wardrobe to black, navy, and grey. You were hired because of your skills and not the color of the clothes you wear (Yes, I really needed to hear this). Stay true to who you are, stay positive, keep learning, smile and be kind to those around you. You can do it!

“I continue to work toward my goal of ACAS and remind myself that Resilience is key and that I can absolutely reach my goals.”

Heather Marino Underwriting Manager—Financial Lines W/R/B Underwriting

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “Like many others, the Insurance industry was introduced to me by a family member. I saw my Aunt navigate a male dominated business world where her hard work and determination were both rewarded and respected. That inspired me to seek a career in this business. I began as an Underwriter in the Professional Associate program at AIG in New York.”

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “Berkley gave me the chance to build something from scratch with some of the smartest and most respected people in our market. Having come from one of the largest Insurance companies in the world, I cannot forget sitting in a small conference room while five of us ordered office supplies, bought each other endless coffees and mapped out the BerkleyPro strategy on a whiteboard.’

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “I had always wanted to live abroad and BerkleyPro was looking to globalize the platform. I raised my hand to move to London. Now or never, I thought. It was far too simple a choice for such a big move, but thankfully it continues to prove to have been the right one. Starting over in a new market, in a new country was by far my biggest professional challenge. I overcame the many challenges of this transition by remaining true to who I was, working hard, embracing being vulnerable and asking a lot of questions.

RECOGNIZING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “The women I have met and befriended in the industry are constant sources of inspiration and support. All of these women are on their own journeys, with their own hardships, insecurities, goals and career paths. I have been fortunate enough to have colleagues, who are also dear friends, to call on for mundane dilemmas and pivotal career choices alike.”

What advice would you give your younger self starting out in the industry? “I’d give the following advice to anyone starting their career: Trust your gut instincts. The Industry will always be full of egos, loud voices and group think. Assuming everyone else knows better is a disservice to you and your career. Have the confidence that your intuition and emotional intelligence will help navigate you through difficult situations. At the same time, keep your eyes and ears open to new opportunities, seek out what scares you. Ask a lot of questions and be a good listener. Know what a good listener is! Be kind and show respect. Everyone, at all levels, has an important role and contributes to the larger picture.”

“Berkley gave me the chance to build something from scratch with some of the smartest and most respected people in our market.”

Ikram Addus Union Standard Insurance Group, AVP, Property Claims

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “Graduating from the University of California at Berkeley with a degree in Architecture, I initially had no idea of what career opportunities the insurance industry could offer. But during a local career fair, I had a chance to speak with an insurance company recruiter who encouraged me to apply for a property claims position. While the work certainly sounded interesting, what really sold me was the prospect of driving a new company car. For a young immigrant who owned a beat-up Toyota Escort purchased at auction—no AC and no radio with multi-colored doors—I felt I had arrived!.”

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “I began working as property claims adjuster for Union Standard Insurance Group in 2009, and after only a few months on the job, the Vice President of Claims offered me a promotion to manage the Property Claims Unit. It was overwhelming to me that he and the company would place such great trust so quickly in me. As a political refugee from Ethiopia, that one fateful decision over a decade ago still shines bright in my memory, as it helped build not only my confidence, but showed me the character of the people at Union Standard.”

“Work hard, but not so hard that you don’t have time to enjoy life and your family. Don’t always be so serious, and stop worrying about the small things.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “Early in my career as a claims adjuster I was called to testify as a company representative in a case involving a coverage dispute. It was very emotionally challenging as the case involved loss of life due to a tornado. As I testified in front of the jury we even had to recess a couple of times due to tornado sirens. I came away feeling that I provided the information that I needed to provide in my testimony. I also received encouragement and support from my company that meant so much to me. This situation, while not pleasant, helped me build resilience and confidence.”

Describe a person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “At a prior company, I was hired to adjust reopen property claims from the Northridge Earthquake in California. What helped me the most in that busy and stressful time in my life was the inspiration I gained from watching my supervisor lead her team so calmly during such a chaotic period, while at the same time nurturing her own family through a personal crisis. At Union Standard, two people who supported and inspired me are my former manager who consistently placed his faith in me and always gave me guidance on how to better lead my team; a current work colleague who has been instrumental in giving me family advice and helping me to become a better public speaker; and my current manager, who is inspiring me to accept new challenges and build on my prior accomplishments. “

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “Work hard, but not so hard that you don’t have time to enjoy life and your family. Don’t always be so serious, and stop worrying about the small things! And if one day you’re blessed with a wonderful husband and three amazing children, then take the time to enjoy your family and don’t let a day go by without let them know you love them.”

Jennifer Towne AVP Marketing & Strategic Markets Acadia Insurance

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “I first became interested in the insurance industry when I began seeking internship opportunities while in college. As an English major, I was seeking internships that were in publishing, media, writing, or marketing. There was an internship posted for Travelers Insurance in their marketing department that involved working on a special project developing targeted marketing resources in English and Spanish for Hispanic business owners in the construction industry. As a Spanish minor, I thought I could assist in both aspects of this project and was fortunate to get the internship, which began my career in insurance and in marketing.”

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “I have many positive memories with Acadia and Berkley. They all involve connecting with employees or agency customers at special events or meetings. The most memorable experience of those was our 25th anniversary employee celebration which was held at the Mt. Washington Hotel. I was fortunate to be part of the planning process as well as the promotion and execution of the event. It was a lot of effort, and the smiles, camaraderie, and memories made by all in attendance was all worth it!”

“I am fortunate to have several key supporters throughout my career and many sources of inspiration.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “My largest professional challenge to date was making the radical shift that was required as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, we began the year with a detailed plan on how the marketing department was going to support the profitable growth of the organization. By mid-March, we were all home and the majority of our marketing plans and projects in-flight were put on hold. It was a very unnerving and frightening period of time. In addition to that, I was home with two young children, ages three and six at the time, learning how to work and parent from home. ‘Radical Acceptance’ was a must! When considering what we in the marketing team could do amidst this massive disruption, the answer was to connect—and stay connected—with our employees and customers, to listen with empathy and compassion, and to find ways to help. As a result, new, creative solutions to communicate and connect were uncovered, including hosting virtual events with employees and agents, forming a parents discussion group, sending video messages to agents, sending care packages and much more. Throughout that first year, we continued to ask ourselves ‘What is needed now?’ and respond accordingly.”

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “I am fortunate to have several key supporters throughout my career and many sources of inspiration. I have taken something with me from each of my prior managers and from many colleagues throughout my career who continue to serve as sources of inspiration for me. I am most appreciative of those managers who supported my professional development in formal and informal educational programs and who made learning opportunities available to me. Most of all, I am grateful for my husband who has been a strong supporter of my career from the beginning, including supporting the decision to relocate to Maine when I joined Acadia Insurance more than a decade ago, adjusting his career plans and finding new career opportunities in our new home state.”

What advice would you give your younger self starting out in the industry? “I recall being afraid to ask for help early in my career, at the time perceiving it to be a sign of weakness or failure. Looking back, I would encourage asking for help much earlier when things got difficult, and to remember that asking for help is a sign of strength and an act of courage. What’s more, it almost always benefits the quality of the end product as more ideas and perspectives are contributed. This is a lesson that I wish I had learned early in my career.”

Jenny Rieger Marketing Communication Specialist Berkley Entertainment

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “I joined Berkley in 2014 as an Underwriting Support Specialist. I did not know much about Berkley or the insurance industry, other than I had heard it was a great place to work from people I knew here. My first responsibilities included working the mailroom, setting up new business accounts, and answering phones. Soon after, an opportunity to take ownership of the Unit Stat process became available thus launching my career in insurance.”

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “It honestly has to be diving into the Innovation process. I have been able to be creative and engage with every department in our organization. Once an idea has been submitted I am fortunate to see it from start to finish. Being a part of the ideation, scoring, experimentation, and even a bit of implementation has been an incredible journey and I love every bit of it.”

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “The courage to speak up and make my voice heard. I used to be so nervous to speak in front of leadership during meetings and I often didn’t say what I really wanted to. I had to be reminded a few times that I was empowered, and I took that and ran with it. I even set one of my innovation goals to become more courageous and that is exactly what I did, and I still strive to do that every day. We are all on the same team and if we didn’t communicate with each other, we would not be as effective. Nothing will ever change if you just sit back and never speak up.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

“Being in the presence of so many dedicated and hardworking women, whether they know it or not, has been an inspiration to how I work today.”

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “I don’t think I can narrow it down to just one person, however it has been many of the women that I have worked with at Berkley. Being in the presence of so many dedicated and hardworking women, whether they know it or not, has been an inspiration to how I work today. I personally want to thank Cindy Broschart & Beth Lee for setting amazing examples on how to be successful in this industry.”

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “Ask questions! If you are unsure how one department or process works, sit in with someone and learn about what they do. I found that if you go to someone seeking help, they are not going to turn you away and shut the door. At Berkley Entertainment, everyone is always willing to help and that is one of the many reasons I love working for this organization.”

Julie Woodward AVP, Head of International Audit WRBC Services, Limited

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “Growing up I only knew insurance as a necessity, I didn’t know anyone who worked in the industry. I was working in the UK as a trainee accountant and a couple of my colleagues relocated to Bermuda after passing their exams. A year later I did the same thing! After working with an accountancy firm for four years, I then moved to an insurance company on the island in their Internal Audit team. I liked the idea of seeing how all parts of the business worked and meeting different people.”

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “In my first year at Berkley I was able to travel for audits in Brazil, Colombia and Singapore, the world then became a lot smaller with COVID and lockdown. It was interesting to see how quickly we all adapted to work from home and were still able to communicate and collaborate. Similarly, it was also a time that saw more changes at Lloyd’s given people had to work remotely.”

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “I have been working on my own using co-source resources which has meant for each audit I need to explain about the group, people and culture, whilst providing a value added, objective and independent audit. As the first London based auditor I have also worked to be accepted by and collaborate with the various businesses here.”

“Sometimes inspiration comes from a unexpected source.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “When I was training I remember a manager telling me to keep pushing to complete my exams, it would be worth it. I’ve had other managers and mentors over the years who have helped me. Sometimes inspiration comes from an unexpected source – we had a retired underwriter join our audit team who gave a different perspective and challenged the business and our team, and become a good friend.”

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “To keep learning and communicating, for example: • Education is primary. The insurance industry is an old industry with key principles that will not change regardless of technology or generational approach. • Learn the business from the ground up. A solid foundation allows for challenge of the status quo and evidence-based decision making. • Communicate and collaborate with peers and colleagues. The insurance industry is a concentrated market. Billions of dollars of premium are produced by a small number of companies. • Focus on data and data analytics. Insurance is an older industry with mountains of data. However, it is also an industry that has been slow to change technologically and as a result still faces challenges of legacy systems. The ability to centralize data for fast and efficient Management information and reporting is still lacking. Long term one of the biggest challenges remains the need to standardize data for company consumption and use, while maintaining market identity. If you think about a lot of the initiatives that started in 70’s and 80’s progress was made in standardizing claims reporting and accounts. However, the underwriting was always under discussion because the brokers needed to set themselves apart. • Insurance is a global necessity. The industry can help emerging markets grow and mature their local economies.”

Karen Y. Pradier Chief Claim Officer Berkley Oil & Gas

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “Following graduation from college, I was working in the banking industry. At that time, there was instability and a lack of growth opportunities in that industry. A college classmate was working in the insurance industry and they encouraged me to apply for an open position with the carrier she was employed by. It was an opportunity to challenge myself. I applied and was offered a position as a Claim Trainee. My trainee class was the largest in the carrier’s history due to the focus on succession planning.”

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “The Berkley Oil & Gas first STAR Award was both memorable and exciting for me. This type recognition was the first I had experienced in my insurance career. In my mind, this was confirmation that our president assembled the right team and best people to move the company forward. BOG maintains the same focus today and has positioned the company for continued success.”

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? Being a part of a start-up had its challenges. There were many days where you would feel a bit overwhelmed but challenges create opportunities. I decided I had to be creative and to tap into every available resource available to me. Whether it was reaching out to other Berkley Operating Units, industry experts, or current and former colleagues. Over time, I compiled a resource manual and have shared this information with other Berkley startup operations that followed. We continue to collaborate to this day.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

“Find your passion and never be afraid to fall. Be patient. It’s all about learning and becoming a better you....Be forward thinking and embrace continuous improvement...”

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “The person that has inspired, supported and/or allied with me during my career, was first a kind, caring and respected individual. As a mentor, they provided guidance and advice in a positive and constructive manner that was motivating and not discouraging. They were always willing to share their knowledge and expertise. These are the same traits and behaviors that I utilize to continue ‘paying it forward’.”

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “Find your passion and never be afraid to fail. Be patient. It’s all about learning and becoming a better you. Seek as many opportunities that are available to you and focus on the future for yourself and the company. Be forward thinking and embrace continuous improvement, both personally and professionally.”

Katherine Strong Vice President, Sales & Distribution Berkley Environmental

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “In 1991, the U.S. was just coming out of a recession. I was very attracted to the stability of the insurance industry and the many possibilities to grow in a longstanding field. My first insurance role was working as a Commercial Claims Casualty Adjuster. I handled the Apple South account which was a chain of Applebee’s restaurants and I also investigated automobile accidents. With a pending of over 300 files, let me just say that I’m glad I was young, curious and energetic!”

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “ANY time I get to spend with my teammates is ALWAYS my favorite and most memorable! I have the privilege of managing a group of motivated, imaginative sales executives along with a first-rate, intelligent service and compliance team”

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “My current role is my most challenging to date supporting and managing a team of eight professionals on whom the company is relying every day. Paramount is my communication with my teammates while juggling special projects and helping to imagine and create innovative tools for the company. I tend to do my best work when I compartmentalize deliverables, engage stakeholders when needed and build in time for creative problem-solving and project input.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “Along my career, I have had multiple supporters and sponsors along the way. The best supporters have been those that nudged me one way or another but who appreciated my strengths and convinced me to accelerate those while improving on where I was falling short. The best supporters have endorsed, sponsored and supported me for new roles and challenges I have sought to develop my professional skills.”

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “Enjoy the journey of your career and don’t be afraid to try something new at your company in order to develop. Be intentional about developing deep relationships with your colleagues and the leaders you admire.”

“I have the privilege of managing a group of motivated, imaginative sales executives along with a first-rate, intelligent service and compliance team.”

Kathleen Brennan Senior Vice President Berkley Re Solutions

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “My father, who was an insurance agent at the time, actually encouraged me to interview with Aetna on campus during my senior year of college, for an underwriter trainee position in their National Accounts division. I’m grateful he encouraged me to get into underwriting and through such a great training company at the time, as I’ve worked in various underwriting / leadership roles ever since. My father knew that the insurance industry had been a “good old boy network” but felt times would be changing, and he was right!”

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “Being one of the first employees at BIS, almost 20 years ago, and then becoming the first BIS woman to rise to an SVP position, from an entrée level underwriting position. Following that, to be the first AE to write a commercial cyber liability program and now handling the highest Gross Written Premium of any AE for this product. Commercial Cyber is our best performing product lime to date.”

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “Moving from working in the primary insurance side to reinsurance really opened my eyes to the bigger picture of the industry. The dynamic and changing nature of all the different client companies made it both challenging and rewarding, especially when working with everyone from the desk underwriter to the President and CEO. I just had to remember that we all had a common goal, which was to serve our customers in the best possible light combined with creating shareholder value for WRBC.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “I would say my Dad since he not only guided me into this industry, but also supported and assisted me with how to navigate the business from a development and advancement perspective. After that there hasn’t been any one person but instead several fantastic colleagues and managers who shared the same values as me. We each pushed each other to make us better as individuals and worked together as a highly effective team that brought great success to each company where we worked. WRBC has been fabulous in their support and recognition every step of the way!”

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “Don’t be afraid to explore different roles within the industry and ask a whole lot of questions, and don’t be intimidated by those with big titles. Learning from the ground up in various departmental operations provides the broadest view and the most opportunity for growth. But don’t be discouraged if you are not the company President in 3 years! The glass ceiling has been shattered and if you learn the business and stay with it, in time opportunities will come very quickly because of the age demographics of the current work force. Also, embrace technology and insurtech approaches to the business, as they are keys to the future.”

“Don’t be afraid to explore different roles within the industry and ask a whole lot of questions...”

Kay Frerk Senior Vice President & Chief Actuary Vela Insurance Services

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “I was a math major at University of Nebraska taking a few classes in actuarial science which were focused on life insurance. My college career center helped me find an internship with Shand Morahan in Evanston, IL. The opportunity introduced me to the property and casualty industry and opened the door for me to start my career as an actuarial analyst with a property / casualty company in Chicago.”

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “I joined Berkley with one of their start-up operating units, Berkley Underwriting Partners (now Berkley Program Specialists). At the early stages of the growth of the company, Bill and Rob Berkley paid our office a visit. They listened to what we were trying to do and met with each of us one on one. The experience gave me an introductory view to understanding the success behind the Berkley organization, what makes it different and why I value being a part of it.”

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “Achieving the Fellowship of the Casualty Actuarial Society (FCAS). At the time I was going through the process, there were 10 exams to pass. I had some failed attempts making my way through the exams which provided temptation to quit. Through support from family and colleagues, determination (and stubbornness), 10 years later I achieved my goal. It has been one of my greatest professional and personal accomplishments and I’m glad that I pushed through.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “I have been with the Berkley organization for 20 years so there have been many amazing people who have supported and influenced me over the course of my career. If there was one person to single out, it would be my father who instilled in me the value of hard work, doing it right and never let me quit when things got difficult.”

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “Don’t be afraid to step up to an opportunity that you think is out of your reach/ experience. Grab it and you will figure out how to succeed.”

“I have been with the Berkley organization for 20 years so there have been many amazing people who have supported and influenced me over the course of my career.”

Lisa Cromwell Senior Claims Specialist Berkley Agribusiness

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “I wanted to align my interests and aspirations with a career that would be fulfilling and provide me with job security; I saw the insurance industry as a way to achieve those goals. My first job was handling non-standard insurance claims for Progressive.”

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “I started at the beginning of COVID as a remote adjuster. Because of that, I have not had the opportunity to meet with others within Berkley Ag. However, even without that personal experience, the collective energy that is demonstrated during zoom and WebEx meetings is invigorating. It is not something I had experienced over the course of my career with other carriers.”

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “Handling catastrophic losses involving fatalities is never easy. My job requires a balance of empathy and doing what is right and fair. It also requires assigning a dollar amount to a what a person’s life is worth and communicating that in a way to effect settlement. I don’t think this is a challenge that one can really ever overcome, because handling grief and pain that others are facing requires a certain level of mental resilience.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “There has been one constant person who has put himself on the line over the course of the years, saying I was the right person for the job. By doing this, I have been able to continually grow, learn and improve. He has always held me accountable and challenged me to continually evolve.”

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “I would say never doubt your abilities and stay true to myself. Don’t be afraid to fail because that’s how you learn. Gain the confidence to speak up because shrinking does nothing but delay your voice from being heard and taken seriously.“

“I wanted to align my interests and aspirations with a career that would be fulfilling and provide me with job security.”

Lisa Rowland Assistant Vice President—Marketing & Distribution Berkley Select

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “Insurance is a “people business” and this is what first attracted me to the industry and has kept me here almost 20 years later. I was recruited out of college into an underwriting trainee program and started my career as a middle market P&C underwriter in Chicago. I enjoy working with a diverse group of people whether they’re within my organization or an external distribution partner. Building new relationships is one of the most rewarding parts of being in this business.”

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “I joined Berkley Select during the pandemic, so for the first few months I was remote and did not have the opportunity to meet anyone in person. It was such a rewarding experience to finally meet my team after only seeing them on the computer. We have an extremely talented group of professionals here who also know how to have fun!”

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “Being a working mom during the pandemic was one of the most difficult times of my career. I had my second daughter just weeks before the world went into lockdown. Working with two young children in the house was a challenge and there were days when it felt impossible to get anything accomplished both personally and professionally. Over time, I’ve made a conscious effort to focus on one thing at a time and feel proud of what I was able to accomplish rather than be frustrated over what still needs to be done.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “My father has been my biggest supporter throughout my career. He is the one who encouraged me to take on new roles earlier in my career that I did not think I was qualified for and taught me how to negotiate.”

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “Get out of your comfort zone and don’t be afraid to take on new challenges.”

“Being a working mom during the pandemic was one of the most difficult times of my career...Working with two young children in the house was a challenge...”

Maria C. Coto Argüeso Underwriting Manager Berkley International Puerto Rico

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “Starting my career in the insurance industry was completely unplanned. I was looking for a part time opportunity while finishing my law degree and wanted to experience something different than a law firm. I spent my final year in law school working part time at Berkley as an Underwriting Assistant. I accepted a full-time position with Berkley after graduation. I had no idea what was in store for me but had fallen in love with the industry and was certain that I needed to give myself the chance to explore this opportunity. Nine years later I am confident I made the right decision.” Comenzar mi Carrera en la industria aseguradora fue totalmente fuera de mis place Me encontraba buscando una oportunidad de media jornada mientras finalizaba mi estudios de abogacía y quería probar un entorno distinto al de un estudio de abogados. Mi último año de estudios fue trabajando esa media jornada como Asistente de Suscripción en Berkley. Acepté trabajar a tiempo completo luego de mi graduación. Honestamente, no tenía idea qué me esperaba pero me había enamorado de esta industria por lo que estaba convencida que era una oportunidad que debía explorar. Nueve años después, estoy convencida que tomé la decisión correcta.

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “In 2017 Puerto Rico was hit by two back to back major hurricanes. The entire island was without power and many other essential services for several months. The majority of our clients had no power or internet and telecommunications were completely down for almost a month. To us it was important to adapt to the circumstances and maintain the level of service that had always distinguished us. We as a team had to adapt and innovate in order to ensure continuity of services without compromising our underwriting standards. In situations like this I have been thankful to Berkley for providing our team with the tools and training that has allowed us to have the courage and resilience to innovate and succeed during these challenges.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

En 2017 Puerto Rico sufrió un daño enorme por el impacto de dos huracanes. No hubo suministro de energía eléctrica y otros servicios esenciales en gran parte de la isla durante varios meses. La mayoría de nuestros clientes sufrían esta realizada. Fue un gran desafío para nuestro equipo adaptarnos a esta situación y dar el elevado nivel de servicio que nos distingue. Tuvimos que adaptarnos e innovar para asegurar la continuidad de nuestros servicios. En situaciones como esta, tengo un especial agradecimiento con Berkley por darnos las herramientas y entrenamiento que nos han permitido tener el coraje y resiliencia para innovar y triunfar durante estos desafíos.

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “I have had many memorable experiences during my time at Berkley. My most gratifying experience would be being part of the Puerto Rico operation from the beginning and participating in its development over the last decade. I have been incredibly lucky to take part in the transformation and growth of our operation since its inception. It is very rewarding to be a part of something coming to life and witnessing first-hand how our market presence as well as our team has grown. I look forward to the future of our operation and its continued evolution. “ He tenido muchas experiencias satisfactorias durante mi tiempo en Berkley. Considero que la más gratificante ha sido ser parte de la operación en Puerto Rico desde el día cero. He sido tremendamente afortunada de participar en la transformación y crecimiento del proyecto. Resulta muy gratificante ser parte de algo desde su nacimiento y ser claro testigo de como nuestra presencia en el mercado como así también nuestro equipo ha crecido. Sigue expectante de lo que nos espera el futuro.

“Trust, patience, and be courageous as you invest in yourself personally and professionally. Good things will follow.”

Maria C. Coto Argüeso (continued)

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “I have been very fortunate to be surrounded by an amazing group of team members, managers and family throughout my career. All of them have inspired me and supported me in some way. I have a very strong bond with my manager who has continuously developed my professional growth. He challenges me while trusting my judgment and skills which has been a huge catalyst in my professional development. I also have a colleague with many years of experience who has consistently been my sounding board, supporter and motivator.” He estado rodeada de un grupo extraordinario de personas en mi equipo laboral, managers y familia durante mi carrera. Todos ellos me han inspirado y dado soporte en múltiples formas. Tengo un vínculo profesional muy fuerte con mi manager quien ha, continuamente, desarrollo mi crecimiento profesional. Él me desafía, pero mostrando plena confianza en mis decisiones y esto ha sido un hito en mi desarrollo. A su vez, tengo un colega con muchísimos años de carrera que ha sido un constante motivador y hombre donde apoyarse.

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “Trust, patience, and be courageous as you invest in yourself personally and professionally. Good things will follow.” Fe, paciencia y tener coraje mientras una invierte en uno su propio crecimiento persona y profesional. Buenas cosas vendrán en el futuro.

In your opinion, how can a focus on Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging have a positive impact on the business? “To me Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging are the basis for teamwork and a positive collaborative environment. Through diversity and inclusion, we can gain from the experiences and views of others. This in turn becomes a core strength since a sense of belonging brings value, engagement and talent retention.” DIB es la base para generar un ambiente positivo de trabajo en equipo y colaboración. Mediante inclusión y diversidad ganamos de las distintas experiencias y visiones de otros. Esto resulta en un activo clave ya que ese sentido de pertenencia genera valor, compromiso y retención de talentos.

BERKLEY Technology Services

When Aliana Layug and Sondra Ashmore began their mentoring partnership, Aliana shared she wanted to pursue a Master’s Degree in User Experience Design. Sondra connected Aliana with the UX program at Iowa State where Sondra received her doctorate several years before. From there Aliana worked hard to complete her Master’s degree in two years while Sondra was her cheerleader and supporter. Here they are celebrating Aliana’s graduation from Iowa State in December ‘21.

Maria José Mosquera Financial Lines Senior Underwriter Berkley Latin America and Caribbean Managers

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “Actually, when I graduated as an attorney in 2006 I had a clear idea that insurance was not going to be my professional choice. In 2007, with the same idea, I had an interview with Delima Marsh to act as an International Accounts Surety Broker. In that meeting I informed my potential employer that “if you hire me, I’ll leave the job soon, insurance is not for me. I will only consider it as a personal challenge”. After some time, I left Delima Marsh to keep developing my career. Contrary to my prediction, I stayed in the Insurance Industry. It’s been a 15-year road trip, far away of a love at first sight but where I have lived an important number of challenges and experiences that have shaped who I am today.” En realidad, al recibir mi título como abogada en el año 2006 tenía claro que no iba a trabajar en la industria aseguradora. En el año 2007, dicho pensamiento no había cambiado cuando fui llamada a una entrevista de trabajo en DELIMA MARSH para desempeñar el cargo de broker de seguro de cumplimiento asignada a la unidad de cuentas internacionales y referidas, por lo que informé a mi entrevistador y futuro jefe “si me contratas me iré pronto, los seguros no son mi nicho, asumiré el cargo como reto y como experiencia laboral, eso es todo”. Bueno al pasar un tiempo, me fui de DELIMA MARSH para seguir creciendo en mi carrera. Contario a mi pronóstico, me quedé en la industria. Ha sido un camino de casi 15 años, así que el amor no fue a primera vista, ha sido un proceso de enamoramiento en el que he podido vivir un cúmulo de experiencias únicas que han contribuido a moldear mi carácter.

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “There have been many and I hope there are more to come. Believing that there are no upcoming challenges, would be leaving aside a special flavor of my professional live. What’s important to me is that I have to accept that, no matter how challenging a situation is, I have received from God the qualities to overcome it, just need to be analytical enough and, even if is still a challenge hard enough to overcome it, the solution might be within my team.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

Han existido muchos y espero que no dejen de suceder. Sería privar de un toque especial a la vida profesional el creer que ya no hay algo más que superar, barreras que romper y retos que asumir. Lo importante para mí, ha sido reconocer que ante cualquier situación profesional por difícil que parezca, he recibido el talento de Dios para superarla, sólo debo ser analítica y si dicha situación sobrepasa mi esfera de control, la solución puede estar en el equipo.

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “It will come soon. I believe I still have a lot to give to this Organization. However, I would like to outline our office in Bogota where the six employees create a family-like environment and of mutual help.” Está por venir, si se me permite, creo que aún tengo por aportar a la organización. En todo caso, en este punto, me gustaría destacar de la oficina de representación en Bogotá que se compone de seis funcionarios, el ambiente de familia laboral y de mutua ayuda que existe entre lo miembros del equipo.

“We all have contributions to make to the team and as a professional family we grow on the grounds of our differences; that’s the key for your team’s and office’s success.”

Maria C. Coto Argüeso (continued)

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “My parents since they taught my siblings and myself, the values of honesty, compromise and love that you need to consider in your job and in any assigned task.” Mis padres, porque como personas trabajadoras nos enseñaron a mis hermanos y a mi, los valores de la probidad, compromiso y amor que debes poner en tu trabajo y en cada tarea asignada.

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “That experience is to be valued and that you need to learn from people that got in the industry prior to you even though they lack your same academical studies or opportunities that you have had. Your life project is not your professional goal, it is the road you create to reach it.” Que la experiencia debe ser valorada y debes aprender de los que te han precedido aún si ellos no tienen la formación académica que tú puedes tener o no han tenido las mismas oportunidades; que la meta no debe ser tu proyecto de vida, el verdadero proyecto es el camino que hagas.

In your opinion, how can a focus on Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging have a positive impact on the business? “Its impact if positive in every way given that in environments guided by these principles is where people can be fully committed to their job. Letting them acknowledge that if someone loses, everybody loses; is someone wins, everybody wins. We all have contributions to make to the team and as a professional family we grown on the grounds of our differences; that’s the key for your team’s and office’s success.” Tiene todo el impacto positivo en el negocio porque sólo en ambientes laborales conducidos por estos valores las personas que integran un equipo pueden estar realmente comprometidas en su labor diaria. Permitiéndoles reconocer que; si alguien pierde, pierden todos; si alguien gana, todos ganan; que todos tenemos algo que aportar y algo que aprender y que como familia laboral crecemos a partir de la diferencia, eso sólo puede llevar al éxito de tu equipo y de una oficina.

W/R/B Underwriting

W/R/B Underwriting is proud to be an equal opportunities employer and we are committed to nurturing and supporting the best talent through our policies, providing learning and growth opportunities, and creating a culture of dignity and respect. #breakthebias

On #internationalwomensday we celebrate the women of W/R/B Underwriting; and acknowledge that the insurance industry has come a long way in recent years to provide better opportunities for women in the workplace.

Megan M. Manogue, JD Vice President and Chief Claim Officer Berkley Financial Specialists

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? I had just graduated law school and passed the bar exam. I took a job as home office claims counsel managing fidelity and surety claims with the intent that it would be a placeholder until I found a job at a law firm. Instead, I found the work quite interesting and wound up staying with that company for 23 years!”

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “Participating in the evolution of BFS’s claim department has been amazing. Over the last 9 years, we have grown into a group of dedicated professionals with a full complement of skills. I’m looking forward to continuing that journey.”

“Participating in the evolution of BFS’s claims department has been amazing... I’m looking forward to continuing that journey.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “Over 20 years ago, my mother was diagnosed with a very serious illness. At the time I had just returned to work following a 3-month maternity leave. I had three very young children and my husband had a full-time job and was enrolled night time grad school program. I was completely overwhelmed at the prospect of working full time handling highly complex claims and juggling all that was going on with my family – but I did not want any of that to negatively impact my career or the quality of my work. When I reached out to my manager to fill him in, he was extremely supportive and allowed me incredible flexibility at a time when workplace flexibility was not at all common. In addition, the team that I worked with was fully supportive and there to fill in for me any time I needed it. I was able to successfully work full time during that six-month period largely because of the support I received from my manager and my team. That experience really taught me the value of a caring leader and a supportive team.”

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “My friend Mary and I met when we both started our first insurance jobs as claims counsel. We are the same age and so we shared many similar life experiences. While our professional paths have diverged over the years, we have supported each other every step of the way. She encouraged me to apply to Berkley when the opportunity arose and I am very grateful to her for that!”

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “Be curious, be collaborative, be confident!”

Michelle Middleton President Berkley Mid-Atlantic Group

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “I started my career at a national carrier as a multiline underwriting trainee in Commercial Lines/Tampa. Loved the job opportunity because it allowed for so many different roles and experiences. I felt like an investigator, asking questions about how things are made and how a customer’s business model works. I also loved to visit manufacturing risks with loss control, talk about legal issues with Claims, and sell solutions to our agents and customers. The best loss control visit was to a huge citrus processor—it was amazing to see the fruit brought in, watch the juicing process followed by equipment sanitation, and bottling. So cool.”

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “I just started my Berkley career in June 2021. At BMAG we’ve been re-building culture and putting #peoplefirst. The return to office efforts were fun and exciting, we’ve enjoyed eating from a taco truck and playing TopGolf together at employee appreciation efforts, but the most memorable effort so far has been our celebration of Black History month. For Black History Month, we took the opportunity to recognize outstanding black achievers and our employees for their heritage and contributions. The team created seven installations that were placed around our home office, representing seven different black contributors who embodied the attributes and exhibited our WRBC Innovation Behaviors. It was truly impactful, and of course we had food to help us celebrate!”

“Who you work for matters—choose wisely. Align your values and your passions where ever possible.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “The greatest professional challenge has been downsizing a global portfolio of entertainment business during the pandemic. The entertainment industry experienced severe losses. The market was contracting capacity and increasing rates. To succeed in creating a win-win solution for the broker I partnered with another leader and brain-stormed ideas. We took each idea and looked at it from the customer and broker point of view, looking for the best outcome for all parties. We iterated. We had to walk away a few times and come back to ideas. There were extreme ideas and others that were mundane, but we channeled our energy and maintained our patience. Ultimately, we created a solution that allowed the broker to find ways to protect their client(s) while making the transition of the portfolio to another carrier. To find solutions within challenge times, I find it best to quiet the mind, separate from your daily work, and get into a very focused zone. You’ll be amazed by the creative and innovative ideas that can (and will) emerge.”

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “I have been lucky to have a fantastic succession of bosses in my career. Their leadership, advocacy and support – through good times and tough times —has been critical. My first boss sat me down and said, “let’s learn the numbers from these MIS reports.” Another in particular inspired me to believe I could do more than what I understood I could do. He gave me opportunities to grow and lead, utilizing my strengths, yet driving me to continue to learn new areas of the business. Another believed and trusted me to do the right thing, though he wasn’t quite sure what that was. Today, Rob Standen does all of these same things, however, he does know what I do! All of these guys made me feel valued. They took the time to explain things; they invested in me.”

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “Who you work for matters—choose wisely. Align your values and your passions where ever possible. “

Mirna Calderon-Hansen Regional Underwriting Executive Berkley Fire & Marine

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “As a young individual and based on my core values, I wanted to work in a professional environment where I could have a positive impact in our society. My first role was Underwriter Assistant for Zurich, Large Property Accounts.”

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far?

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it?

“The entrepreneurial culture.”

“Working for a global company in a newly formed inland marine department that did not have a strong local brand. However, my reputation, relationships, and professional experience helped me to build my company’s brand. It was a lot of hard work but it led to build a successful portfolio and strengthen my relationships with my clients.”

“Be genuine, honest, respectful and kind to your colleagues, boss and clients.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “My Manager at Zurich, Jaime Mendez, he was my mentor while at Zurich and beyond. He was always supportive and provided important feedback that helped me grow while I was at Zurich and the other companies I worked at. While I worked for him, he gave me the opportunity to become a large property underwriter working with companies like Boeing, Advanced Micro Devices, Hilton Hotel, etc. while I was only 23 years of age. Unfortunately, he passed away recently; I always think of him with much respect and appreciation.”

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? *

Focus on being the best at what you do by working hard, being diligent, responsible, and applying yourself.

•

Be genuine, honest, respectful and kind to your colleagues, boss and clients.

•

Take care of your reputation. It follows you everywhere.

•

Live a balanced life… work hard and play hard.

Monique Stip CFO Asia Berkley Re Singapore

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “After visiting several employers’ introduction days at university in the Netherlands, the combination of working with numbers, people and multiple companies seemed ideal, so I applied for a job in one of the accountancy firms. Within accountancy, the financial services sector was my preference, whereby I thought I would start auditing banks. I started with the audit of an investment property company, but soon moved to pension funds and one of the big multinational Dutch insurance companies. Working for a multinational stock listed insurer provided a good training ground in a dynamic setting, which set the foundation for my career in the insurance industry. Therefore, it was more about getting to know the insurance industry and grow within, then making a conscious choice to enter the industry in the first place.””

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “Every time, I am proud to say that our company is different than other multinational organizations. Berkley allows their business units to set their own direction. It creates a lot of satisfaction when, as a team, we are able to create the future and contribute to the bigger picture of the W.R. Berkley Corporation, while support is provided by head office if required.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “One of the first key challenges was moving to another country, while English wasn’t my most favorite topic at school. The first six months or so in the United Kingdom, I am desperately trying to understand all profession terms in English, trying to complete audits under tight deadlines, and starting a new life in a new country. Breathe, keep going, keep asking questions for clarification, while the dictionary was my new friend. Challenges make us grow, although in the moment it is normally not how we perceive it!”

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “I have been lucky enough that in each company I worked for, I had and have great managers to work with. A manager that supports me by guiding me through challenges, is a sparring partner or just a listener, allow me to learn, while letting me be myself.”

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “Go with the flow and follow your heart in every opportunity that arises. For me, that has meant moving countries, companies and roles during my career, which shows there is enough variety and growth within the industry, and every day something new to learn.“

“Every time, I am proud to say that our company is different than other multinational organizations.”

Pia Casanova Casualty Facultative Reinsurance Specialist Underwriter Berkley Latam & Caribbean

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “I started in the insurance industry by chance, 14 years ago. After having studied Human Resources and having taken a few years off to dedicate myself exclusively to maternity, at a given moment I decided that I wanted to resume my professional career and an opportunity arose in an American reinsurance underwriting agency, based in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The position was back-office, and since it was a new field for me, I knew that this role could be the first step on a new path.” Empecé en la industria de seguros de casualidad, hace 14 años. Luego de haber estudiado RRHH y habiéndome tomado unos años para dedicarme exclusivamente a la maternidad, en un momento dado decidí que quería retomar mi carrera profesional y apareció una oportunidad en una agencia suscripción de reaseguros americana, con sede en Buenos Aires, Argentina. El puesto era de back-office, y al ser un rubro nuevo para mí, sabia que ése papel podría ser el primer paso de un nuevo camino.

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “The biggest professional challenge was developing myself as an underwriter. At the underwriting agency where I worked, a vacancy opened up for Casualty Underwriter, for which I applied and was selected. From then on, I had to learn everything, and make a great personal effort, making every hour count as much as possible. While I was training as an underwriter, I continued to maintain my Back-office position, and at the same time had a family with 2 small children. Back then I had to learn about the business, learn to analyze the risks, travel to have intensive technical training, learn about clauses and get to know the commercial dynamics.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

El mayor reto profesional fue desarrollarme como suscriptora. En la agencia de suscripción donde trabajaba, se había abierto una vacante para Suscriptora de Casualty, para la cual me postulé y quedé seleccionada. A partir de allí, tuve que aprender todo, y hacer un gran esfuerzo personal haciendo que cada hora valiese lo máximo posible. Mientras me capacitaba como suscriptora, seguía manteniendo mi puesto de Back-office, y a su vez tenía una familia con 2 hijos chicos. En ése entonces tuve que aprender del negocio, aprender a analizar los riesgos, viajar para tener entrenamientos técnicos intensivos, aprender de cláusulas y conocer las dinámicas comerciales.

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “The most memorable and challenging experience at WR Berkley was when I joined. I was part of the team hired to start up the Casualty Facultative operation for LatAm. Being a start up, everything had to be built from scratch; from adapting the current systems to a business that was slightly different that insurance to participating in meetings to decide what our risk appetite would be to preparing presentations for our future treaty reinsurers to begin travelling to let our clients know there was a new player in town. It was a professional challenge that gave me great satisfaction.” La experiencia mas memorable y desafiante a la vez, fue en mis comienzos en WR Berkley. En aquel entonces se estaba abriendo la operación de Reaseguro Facultativo para Latinoamérica con la línea de Casualty. Se convocó a un equipo para abrir ésta operación de la cual formé parte, y fue armar todo de cero, un start-up en donde todo estaba para desarrollar, desde armar una cartera balanceada haciendo una selección de negocios con resultados sólidos, crear un espacio en el mercado como un nuevo jugador, visitando varios países de Latinoamérica, hasta parametrizar el sistema actual para que fuera compatible con el negocio que hacíamos como reasegurador. Fue un reto profesional que me dio muchas satisfacciones.

Pia Casanova (continued)

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “There is no one person in particular who has inspired me, I would say that what inspired me was the desire to give the best of myself, develop it and put it in practice.” During my career, I definitely had an ally. Diego Miagro was my mentor and the one who taught me about the business on a day-to-day basis, to analyze risks from different perspectives, and he was also the one who challenged me to go for more. I always thank him for sharing his knowledge and for his human quality.” No hay una persona en particular que me haya inspirado, diría que lo que me inspiró fue las ganas de brindar lo mejor de mí, desarrollarlo y ponerlo al servicio. Durante mi carrera, definitivamente tuve un aliado. Diego Miagro fue mi mentor y quien me enseñó en el dia a día sobre el negocio, a analizar los riesgos desde distintas perspectivas y fue también quien me retó a ir por más. Le agradezco siempre su generosidad de conocimiento y calidad humana.

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “Above all things, my advice is temperance. Always keep the headlight and direction. Learn to develop the sense of listening and observation, to then integrate everything and take action. Get a lot of training and always be open to continued learning.” Por sobre todas las cosas, mi consejo es templanza. Mantener siempre el faro y la dirección. Aprender a desarrollar el sentido de la escucha y la observación, para luego integrar todo y tomar acción. Capacitarse mucho y estar siempre abierto a seguir aprendiendo.

“Learn to develop the sense of listening and observation, to then integrate everything and take action.”

In your opinion, how can a focus on Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging have a positive impact on the business? “When an organization generates an environment of “organizational culture” open to diversity and flexible to inclusion, it generates that each individual can develop their professional role integrating their individuality. This makes the potential of each person emerge because the contribution is already from a more genuine place, with a greater commitment to oneself and therefore to the company. I personally believe that organizations have an important role in society because they can be powerful generators of awareness. When a culture is lived in the organization where diversity is not only respected, but also valued as the deployment of different resources that are put at the service of the common goal, it means that inclusion is not something forced but something organic that is perceived in the air. If each individual in that organization can replicate that air to other areas outside the organization, we all end up winning.” Cuando una organización genera un ámbito de “cultura organizacional” abierta a la diversidad y flexible a la inclusión, genera que cada individuo pueda desarrollar su rol profesional integrando su individualidad. Esto hace que las potencialidades de cada persona afloren porque el aporte ya es desde un lugar mas genuino, con un mayor compromiso con si mismo y por ende con la compañía. Personalmente considero que las organizaciones tienen un rol importante en la sociedad porque pueden ser potentes generadores de consciencia. Cuando en la organización se vive una cultura en donde la diversidad no solo se respetada, sinó que también valorada como el despliegue de distintos recursos que se ponen al servicio del fin común, hace que la inclusión no sea algo forzada sinó como algo orgánico que se respira en el aire. Si cada individuo de esa organización puede replicar ese aire a otros ámbitos fuera de la organización, sucede una sociedad en la que terminamos ganando todos.

Sabrina Langer Head of Strategy and Business Development W. R. Berkley Europe AG Germany Branch

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “I always wanted to become an interpreter because I love foreign languages. But my father advised me to train in insurance because it was a save industry. That´s how I ended up in the insurance industry as a personal insurance underwriter— nothing something I necessarily wanted to do, but I have never regretted it.”

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “The most memorable experience is the culture lived at Berkley: everyone counts, everyone matters. And that´s exactly how it feels to work at Berkley. We listen to each other and respect other opinions. Everyone gets to think out loud and be part of our success.”

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “When I was in my late 20s, I moved from Germany to the UK. I never thought that I would get the opportunity to work as an underwriter Financial Institutions at Lloyd’s of London, in a foreign country where everything is new: language, market, wordings, culture and clients. But I was brave and open to the challenge, and in the end I made it.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “My father. He has always supported me and inspired me with his tirelessness. The best thing he gave me along the way: Everyone only boils with water. That somehow made me fearless.”

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “Believe in yourself, go your way, be open to new challenges, make mistakes and learn from them. “

“Believe in yourself, go your way, be open to new challenges, make mistakes and learn from them.”

Sheila Gott Senior Vice President, Equine & Cattle Manager Berkley Equine & Cattle

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “When I was first out of school, I had an offer with a bank in Lexington or a large insurance agency which sold property, commercial, personal and equine insurance. I chose the insurance agency mostly because it was closest to where I lived at the time but I also had a love for horses. The job was for the receptionist position and assisting the woman who was head of their equine insurance department. I didn’t stay in the receptionist position for very long— less than a year, I was moved to the equine insurance department full time. After approx. 14-15 years, the head of the department left to start her own agency and I was promoted to manage the Equine department.”

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “Unfortunately, COVID restricted a lot of what I had planned to do when first starting with Berkley. I have been impressed with the people that worked for Berkley—their longevity with the company and the enjoyment they seem to get from their jobs.”

“Work hard, learn everything you can about the industry your working in and treat everyone with respect.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “The Equine Industry in general has mostly been a “man’s world” —whether in insurance, owning or working on the Thoroughbred farms -- and not very many women were accepted or respected in my first several years working at the insurance agency. Most of our equine insurance business was placed in London and that was dominated by men too. I had to work very hard to win the respect from the London underwriters and brokers I dealt with daily as well as my peers in the local equine insurance business. I fortunately was mentored by a strong, well respected woman who not only was considered one of the best equine insurance agents, but owned her own Thoroughbred farm and won the respect of the men running the other farms in Kentucky.”

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “I’ve had two. Initially, the woman—Nina Hahn—that trained me and mentored me at the insurance agency where I worked. She immigrated from Germany to Canada with her mother towards the end of WWII. She came to Kentucky when she was 20 because she loved horses and thought Kentucky was the best place to be to work with horses. She started her own Thoroughbred horse farm and she was the first woman that was allowed to go with her mares to be bred at the stud farms. She taught me the insurance business and was an example of how hard work and treating others with respect can help you succeed in anything you want to do. She has remained a close friend all these years later. The second was Rich Banas. I met him at the first insurance company I worked for and when he left to join another insurance company, he hired me to start a U.S. division of that company’s equine unit. I started that unit from the ground up and grew to be in the top 3 insurance companies for equine insurance in the U.S.”

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? Work hard, learn everything you can about the industry your working in and treat everyone with respect. Also, remember how you started and the people that helped you and gave your opportunities along the way and pass that forward to assist and mentor other young people starting in the industry.”

Sofia Pettersson Regional Chief Executive Officer of the Nordic Region Berkley Nordic

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “My first role in the insurance industry was as an Environmental Underwriter at AIG. During my fist years in the insurance industry I attended an international trainee program in New York; this was a very good start of my insurance career as I learned a lot and developed an understanding for the international world of commercial insurance. What attracted me was the variety of opportunities and the international environment I entered into. As a 25-year-old Swede; starting my insurance career in the financial district of New York city was very exciting. “

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “The strongest and most memorable experience from my time with Berkley is the feeling of pride and success that we as a team in Berkley Nordic felt after a couple of years of hard work of changing our strategy and developing our culture together and seeing the positive results in the numbers but mainly in the positive feedback and reactions we are getting from the market, confirming that we are making a difference and our strategy and all hard work and efforts are paying off.”

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “My first year at Berkley was probably my most challenging one. I started a new role, in a new organization during a challenging time with a lot of change; both in strategy, staff and in business appetite. My focus during this time was on people; trying to listen, communicate clearly and to stay calm and supportive. “

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “In my first leadership role I was managing northern Europe and my closest colleague was another young female who managed southern Europe. From the outside we understood that people expected us to compete against each other but that was not the case at all. Despite very different personalities; me being a typical Swede, calm, rational, organized and her being typical southern European; emotional, loud, and efficient— we complemented each other in the best of ways and always supported each other. Even though we now work at different companies we still stay in touch and continue to offer support and advise. She is a great leader who continues to inspire me.”

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “To be patient! It’s OK to not know everything from day one. With more experience you learn that you are never done learning and that is one of the other most exciting things about insurance and the insurance industry.”

“It’s OK not to know everything from day one...you are never done learning and that is one of the other most exciting things about insurance and the insurance industry.”

Stacey Silipo Vice President of Marketing Berkley One

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “I interviewed with an insurance company and an accounting firm while on campus in my last year of college. I chose to go with the accounting firm’s offer. That was the wrong decision. After nine months, I called the HR manager at the insurance company I had interviewed with, met with a number of great people, and started there as a Personal Lines Underwriter. That was the start of what will soon be a 30-year career in insurance.”

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “Everything has been memorable so far! Because Berkley One is a newer Berkley Company, there have been so many firsts. In Marketing, I remember creating our brand, launching our social media, website and agency portal, creating Adventure Awaits— a digital magazine for clients, and developing our Art Insights webinar series which continues to grow and reach a wider audience. I will also always remember how our team came together in 2020, especially for the Berkley Virtual Concerts, with creative and fun ideas for connecting with our agents. I love the Walt Whitman quote “We were together. I forget the rest” and that’s how 2020 felt. The Berkley One team came together, even though we were apart and it made us stronger.”

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “My biggest professional challenge was managing through an acquisition of the company I worked for and ultimately being brave enough to leave that company to pursue a role at Berkley One. That turned out to be the right decision and I have enjoyed the last five years at Berkley immeasurably.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “I can’t pick just one so I chose two! Kathy Tierney inspires me. I’ve now worked for two organizations that she has led and her ability to rally a team and get them to row in the same direction is amazing. She’s also one of my favorite collaborators. Christoph Ritterson is the other. He is a great listener, supporter and collaborator. He shares insights and ideas and then steps back and lets me apply my creativity and process. The end result is always better and more complete.”

What advice would you give your younger self starting out in the industry? “Be patient and get comfortable with being uncomfortable. That’s where the learning and breakthroughs are.”

“Be patient and get comfortable with being uncomfortable. That’s where the learning and breakthroughs are.”

Stephanie N. Fagin Regional Vice President Berkley Management Protection

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “I started my insurance career in Chubb’s St. Louis office as a trainee in the management liability department. My cousin’s wife worked for a small insurance agency and called me at college to introduce me to the hiring manager, Ken Stephens. I distinctly recall our interview where he sat next to me in his office instead of behind his desk. That made such an impression on me. I’ve had the pleasure of working for a number of outstanding leaders since then.”

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “We launched our company, Berkley Management Protection, during the pandemic so I met the majority of my colleagues virtually. After meeting a number of teammates in person it turns out webcams do not provide an accurate representation of height!”

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “Changing a culture within a division in a company that was not ready to change has been my biggest challenge. In an effort to overcome it, I presented alternatives and data in support of implementing changes. Ultimately, I built a team that embraced change and did shift the culture and dynamic.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “I have a mentor outside of the insurance industry. Recently she guided me through considering a career change that led me to Berkley Management Protection. She knows how to ask just the right questions to offer balance and perspective in every situation. Most importantly, she will not allow me to grow complacent in any role and pushes me to challenge myself. I am very grateful for all of the time and energy she has invested in me. I know that I have made better choices because of her coaching.”

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “Ask more questions and listen. There is no shortage of great people in the industry that love to help others as they start their careers.”

“Ask more questions and listen. There is no shortage of great people in the industry that love to help others as they start their careers.”

Susan Zabolotniuk SVP Accident, Health & Travel Insurance Berkley Canada

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “My insurance career started with a position as risk manager at a large university while completing my undergraduate degree. While the initial attraction was the excellent parking that came with the position (a challenge at UBC), it became an excellent training ground to learn how to manage both traditional and unusual risks, how to optimize broker-insurer relationships, and set up effective claims management practices. A move to a global brokerage opened other doors and led to my current role at Berkley Canada.”

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “While there have been countless memorable experiences given the outstanding quality, knowledge and professionalism of my Berkley colleagues, I would think that the WRB Executive Management Program will remain a highlight given the opportunity for participants to advance their industry knowledge and learn from business leaders, peers and Berkley executives.”

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “It was somewhat challenging finding senior female role models given that women have long been highly underrepresented in executive roles, with fewer roads paved for women to advance their careers than their male counterparts. The female corporate ladders often had missing rungs, but this challenge drove me to work and study harder than my peers, knowing that it was important to eliminate any potential argument against hiring a woman into a role. That said, it remains a work in progress.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

“Ask for what you want. Know your worth. Learn whose advice is reliable. Know that career plans need many routes. Trust your instincts. Take chances...”

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “While there are many colleagues who have inspired and supported me, my wisest decision was marrying a man who not only believes in my capabilities, but continually encourages me to embrace and conquer challenges, supporting me with patience, kindness and wise counsel.”

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “Ask for what you want. Know your worth. Learn whose advice is reliable. Know that career plans need many routes. Trust your instinct. Take chances because you can always pick yourself up if you get knocked down.”

Tani Alexander Casualty Treaty Manager ANZ Berkley Re Australia

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “On advice of my dad, I decided to take an insurance course as part of my university studies. I was studying finance and needed to fill in my non-finance subjects. My lecturer, who was also working full time in the reinsurance industry, really inspired me to consider the reinsurance industry as a career and I guess the rest is history? I am still in contact with him to this day. My first role in the industry was my first real job straight out of university in Munich Re’s graduate program based in Sydney.“

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “Being asked to join Ed Hess’ innovation days in New York. I had only been with Berkley for a few years, and getting to meet so many people from the Reinsurance segment all in one space was a wonderful experience and a really enjoyable few days despite my jet lag!”

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “My natural tendency is to focus on data and I tend to rely heavily on the numbers and other information points to make a decision. My biggest professional challenge is probably from the daily interactions with those who make gut decisions and rely on their instinct before even viewing the data. I would say this is still a work in progress for me to overcome, but I am working towards building the courage to overcome this hurdle and trying to be bold as I challenge others on their views.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “My mom inspired me. She has 7 kids and somehow managed to give the appearance of ‘having it all’ and never giving up on her career. There are photos of my her and older sister, just 2 years old, in her office as she completed her post grad. She continues to break the boundaries and always supported me to make the challenging career choices not the easy ones.”

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “Find your pack. Be it at work, at home or through a friend network. You will need someone to scream at, lean on and celebrate with. This is just as important as the technical stuff but harder to learn.”

“Find your pack. Be it at work, at home or through a friend network. You will need someone to scream at, lean on and celebrate with.”

Wendy Santos Medical Unit Manager Preferred Employers Insurance

What initially attracted you to enter the insurance industry and what was your first role? “My first role in the insurance Industry was a Utilization Review / Nurse Case Manager. Injured workers face many challenges in Workers Compensation. I wanted to make a difference by helping injured workers obtain medically necessary treatment. Although I am no longer in a clinical setting, it is rewarding to know that patients are getting access to the medical care needed in order to recover from their work-related injuries.”

What has been your most memorable experience at Berkley thus far? “There was a time when the systems were down. No internet, no faxes, no phones. Our unit still had to address medication rejections and medical treatment requests within the state mandated timelines. (We typically receive over 1100 medical treatment requests a month.) Our team met and created a work-around plan to address all the prescription rejections and medical treatment. It was awesome to see the team collaborate effectively and address the treatment requests timely.”

What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you overcome it? “The biggest challenge was not having any knowledge of Workers Compensation. I took the time to improve my knowledge of Workers Compensation and Utilization Review through many trainings, asking a lot of questions and reading articles. Because of the frequent changes and new regulations throughout the year, the learning is never-ending.”

CELEBRATING...Great Women Leaders at Berkley

Describe the person that has inspired, supported or allied with you during your career “My mom has always supported my career choices. When I was little, she encouraged me to take on different projects, seek adventures, never stop learning and to stand up for what I believe is right. How will you know if you don’t try? This helped me make the decision to pursue a profession in nursing.”

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in the industry? “Don’t be afraid to venture outside your comfort zone and face challenges. This is the opportunity to learn and grow. Make the time to take care of yourself and gain a work-life balance. Ask for help when needed and accept help from others when offered.”

“Don’t be afraid to venture outside your comfort zone and face challenges. This is the opportunity to learn and grow.”

Berkley actively strives to build and support a culture where everyone is valued for their skills and experiences, as well as their unique characteristics and qualities. Our inclusive culture honors differences and welcomes feedback, open discussion and new ideas.

Introducing the “DIB” SharePoint Site

PRO TIP: Bookmark the site link for easy reference

The “Sharing” page in the left-hand pane is a place to share what your company is doing around DIB. To upload pertinent articles, videos, or newsletters to the Sharing page. contact: Yaseh Iqbal (yiqbal@wrberkley.com) or Tammie Heeren (theeren@wrberkley.com)

Everything Counts, Everyone Matters.®

OUR BERKLEY Women in Action

CLICK on the graphic to see our Berkley women in action

Preferred Employers Insurance To celebrate International Women’s Day, Preferred Employers posted a short video from Janis Eoff, their VP of HR, about female leadership and what keeps her inspired.