NOTABLE WOMEN IN REINSURANCE
Some of the lessons Arlene has learned in the course of her career include:
On the industry I’ ve seen quite a bit of change in reinsurance since I began my career. When I started my career, it was difficult to build a network of like colleagues. At that time, women saw themselves differently in the company, and you had to do a lot on your own to reach out for support. I’ m glad to see that women’ s aspirations have shifted to where they more readily see themselves as leaders. Today their career paths can go as far as they want to take them, instead of only as far as the industry allows.”
On networking I’ m grateful for the women’ s network at Munich Re and have also devoted time over the years to creating a strong informal network. This can be invaluable in navigating tricky situations – and they do happen. It is good to have a network of colleagues with whom you’ ve developed a high level of trust. There’ s a strong chance others in your network have experienced similar situations, and can give you the honest and valuable feedback you need to hear.
Fast Facts
Professional Career
· Munich Reinsurance America, Inc.( Munich Re), Strategic Innovation Leader, Innovation Practice or“ Incubator” Team, New Strategic Markets
· Munich Reinsurance America, Inc.
· Variety of positions at Munich Re over her career, including the National Clients Property Underwriting, Reinsurance Division, Business Information Solutions, and Financial Management and Reporting
· State Farm
· Supervisor within the Accounting Finance Division
Education
· York College of Pennsylvania, B. S.( in Accounting
Industry Involvement
· Executive Board of Directors, Intermediaries and Reinsurance Underwriters Association( IRUA)
· Board of Directors, IICF Northeast Region
On board service In addition to creating an expanded network, it’ s valuable to work with different teams, and boards that have a unique dynamic. This provides a different experience than what you do in your for-profit corporate environment, in terms of solving new kinds of problems. I’ ve come to understand the inner workings of another type of organization, and that helps build the breadth of your experience. For the Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation( IICF) [ for which Arlene is on the Northeast Regional Board ], it’ s been fulfilling to be part of something where people come together in the best possible spirit of the industry to make a difference in the communities where they live and work.
On work-life balance What’ s most import is that you find balance to whatever that means to you. It’ s not a one size fits all. Over 25 years, I’ ve seen companies care more about this balance. Back in the early days of my career, it was taboo to even talk about balance. Now corporations care about balance for both men and women because it makes you a better, more fulfilled and loyal employee.
* Profiles are of women who are not affiliated with or employed by Porter Wright Morris & Arthur LLP.
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