As the insurance industry evolves, the increasingly visible contribution of women highlights not only individual successes but also the changing dynamics of a sector moving towards greater inclusivity at all levels.
Here we highlight five of our colleagues from the UK nominated for the Women in Insurance Awards 2025. Their voices offer a balance of pride in their achievements, the challenges they’ve overcome and obstacles still on the horizon.
Beyond nominations: an industry evolving
The nominations come as a surprise as those who put them forward are kept a secret. For nominees, they evoke a sense of pride at being recognised for their contributions.
For Becky Harris, Middle Market Underwriter, UK Commercial Lines, the nomination for ‘Underwriting Professional of the Year’ is proof that every-day hard work does not go unnoticed. “It’s a good feeling to know that someone thought you were worthy of being put forward just for doing your day-to-day job well. For simply being a good underwriter,” she says.
“To have your name next to a list with prestigious women in the industry is an achievement in itself,” adds Abbie Conneely, Client Relationship Manager nominated in three different categories – ‘Role Model of the Year’, ‘Mentor of the Year’, and ‘Insurance Woman of the Year’.
A glance at the list of nominees reveals an impressive number of industry professionals. But the story goes beyond those names on the page, for only a few years ago, that list was noticeably shorter.
Reflecting on her nomination as well as the awards in general, Olga Plop, DU Audit Manager and ‘Insurance Woman of the Year’ nominee, points out the importance of showing that achieving great things in the industry is not about gender. “It’s not just about celebrating success but also about creating visibility and inspiring others to believe in their potential,” Olga says. “These awards are a way to highlight and encourage more women to step forward and take on leadership roles.”
Stef Green, Head of Client Management UK, nominated for ‘Role Model of the Year’ adds that the awards help shine a light on the amazing work women are doing in the industry: “They’re a way to celebrate those achievements and inspire others to continuously aim higher.”
Progress evident; keeping the momentum imperative
The nominees all describe Sompo as a supportive and inclusive workplace, one that values its employees, offers opportunities for professional growth and meaningful contributions, while also acknowledging areas for continued improvement in communication and gender parity.
When Charlotte Sampson, DU Technical Manager, arrived at Sompo three years ago, she was joining a business with already high aspirations in the UK. Her experience hints at an environment supportive at both a personal and professional level. “They’ve empowered me to streamline processes in my team, giving me the autonomy to make meaningful changes. It’s a workplace that values its employees and recognizes the importance of flexibility,” the ‘Insurance Woman of the Year’ nominee said.
Despite progress, there is always room for improvement. Our colleagues highlight greater diversity in leadership roles, enhancing communication and ensuring broader representation across all levels of the organization as some of the areas that should – and are – being looked at.
“Broadening representation would be a big step forward. It’s about creating a top-down approach to gender parity and inclusion,” Abbie says.
“There’s still a connotation – not just in insurance but in any industry – that women sometimes have to work twice as hard as men. This is something we need to change, and it starts with better communication and increased awareness of opportunities,” Becky adds.
While the Women in Insurance Awards are a source of immense pride and recognition, their true value lies in the stories they bring to light. Stories of achievement and leadership by women in our company and across the industry.
By showcasing these stories, we not only celebrate progress, but aim to inspire future generations of female leaders to choose the insurance industry and see it as a place where they can thrive.
To echo the words of Stef Green, we want to facilitate an environment in which everyone feels empowered to “always speak up, let your voice be heard, and sit at the table.”
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About Sompo
We are Sompo, a global provider of commercial and consumer property, casualty, and specialty insurance and reinsurance. Building on the 135 years of innovation of our parent company, Sompo Holdings, Inc., Sompo employs approximately 9,500 people around the world who use their in-depth knowledge and expertise to help simplify and resolve your complex challenges. Because when you choose Sompo, you choose The Ease of Expertise.™
"Sompo" refers to the brand under which Sompo International Holdings Ltd., a Bermuda-based holding company, together with its consolidated subsidiaries, operates its global property and casualty (re)insurance businesses. Sompo International Holdings Ltd. is an indirect whollyowned subsidiary of Sompo Holdings, Inc., one of the leading property and casualty groups in the world. Shares of Sompo Holdings, Inc. are listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.