To celebrate International Women’s Day, we are shining a light on some of the women who help drive our business forward. Read on to hear what they think makes the insurance sector great and what International Women's Day means to them.
Dame Sue Langley OBE
What is your role at Gallagher?
I am the non-executive Chair of Gallagher’s UK business.
What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
International Women’s Day is a chance to celebrate success and encourage all women to have the confidence to meet their full potential.
Who is your female role model and why?
There are many to name! Any woman who forges her own path and leads the way is a role model. I think we all admire different attributes in many different women, but the key is strength and perseverance.
As a woman in insurance what would you say is the best thing about our sector?
Insurance is underestimated, we couldn't function without it. It's an enabler and has a huge range of roles, from the HR, finance, operations through to broking, underwriting and modelling.
Helen Pound
What is your role at Gallagher?
I am on the Facultative Reinsurance side of the business and I run our US Property FAC team in London.
What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
To me, it’s about equality. Women having a voice, standing up for what they believe in, and being given the opportunities to follow their dreams and ambitions. It also happens to be my Birthday!
Who is your female role model and why?
My first female boss. I was fortunate enough to have an amazing line manager in my early 20’s. Sadly she is no longer with us, she was a strong, driven, passionate and independent woman and her work ethic was exemplary. I think of her often and what advice she would give me. She continues to be an inspiration and someone I aspire to be like.
As a woman in insurance what would you say is the best thing about our sector?
The people, always the people. This is not specific to being a woman of course - we are just fortunate in our roles as brokers to work with many wonderful people –clients, markets and colleagues.
Phoebe Merritt
What is your role at Gallagher?
I am a broker at Gallagher’s Asia-Pacific and South African Property Team, focusing on Australia and New Zealand. I started at Gallagher in August 2021 on the Graduate Scheme and have had the privilege of working alongside a supportive team.
What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
To me, IWD is a global movement to celebrate the remarkable achievements of women throughout history whilst raising awareness and advancing gender equalities and advocacy needed for women’s rights ensuring they have equal opportunities and freedoms without limits or discrimination globally.
Who is your female role model and why?
Whitney Wolfe Herd is the Founder and CEO of Bumble. Through facing adversity in the male-dominated dating app industry, she has become the youngest self-made female billionaire. Her journey of resilience, innovation and strength is an inspiration to women everywhere.
As a woman in insurance what would you say is the best thing about our sector?
From my own experience the best thing about the insurance sector is the mutual respect you are met with. Gallagher’s culture of respect attracted me to the company in the first place and the manner with which they treat their clients and colleagues alike. Gallagher’s culture makes sure all colleagues are included and encourages personal, as well as professional development.