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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