Women in insurance are no strangers to strategy, resilience, or high performance – but sometimes, the most powerful tools they bring to the table are the ones long dismissed as "soft skills": empathy, listening, and self-awareness. At a recent panel hosted by Allianz Global Assistance as part of the Women in Insurance Summit, three leaders from the organization explored how women can show up authentically, lead, and uplift others in an industry still evolving toward greater equity.
The panelists shared personal reflections on finding their place in insurance, navigating self-doubt, and creating space for other women to rise. The conversation also reinforced the importance of mentorship, visibility, and staying grounded in one’s values.
Alannah Doxtater (pictured left), business development manager at Allianz Global Assistance, spoke candidly about her early years in the industry – when like many women, she questioned whether she was “too much,” too bold, or too assertive for the room. But over time, she learned that her strength came from showing up as her full self: direct, thoughtful, and values-driven.
Rather than changing to fit expectations, she said she refined her approach – choosing to listen carefully, understand her audience, and build trust through clarity and consistency.
She emphasized the importance of staying rooted in your values and being unafraid to challenge norms.
“Relationships (whether internal or client-facing) are strongest when people know who you are and what you stand for,” she said.
She also highlighted the role of mentors in helping women build confidence and navigate doubt. Having someone to talk to, reflect with, and learn from can be a powerful source of growth – and a reminder that you're not alone in your journey.
“Success is not limited. Collaborate with other women, don't compete,” Doxtater said.
Helen Cosburn (pictured right), vice president of strategic partnerships at Allianz Global Assistance, reframed empathy and active listening not as “soft skills,” but as strategic differentiators. In a world where clients and partners face increasingly complex challenges, she said, people don’t want transactional interactions – they want connection, relevance, and a sense that their concerns are heard.
For Cosburn, every meeting is an opportunity to “lead with curiosity”. Rather than jumping into solutions or pitching value, she says she starts with questions: “What’s really driving the issue? What matters to this client or partner?”
She said that that kind of presence builds trust, and trust is what sustains long-term business relationships, even through difficult times.
Cosburn encouraged attendees to embrace emotional intelligence as a strength, not a sideline skill, and to always remember they are “in the room for a reason.”
“You have a different perspective an, you should speak up and share opinions and ideas. Sometimes fresh ideas at the table are the best ones. There's a reason you're at the table,” she added.
Claudia Baino (pictured centre), business development director at Allianz Global Assistance, brought a global business lens to the conversation. With over 35 years of experience across industries, she reflected on a recurring theme: women often believe their performance alone will lead to recognition and advancement. But in reality, visibility matters – and advocating for yourself and others is part of leadership.
Baino said she has made it her mission to elevate women by creating opportunities for them to be seen and heard. That includes inviting them to strategy meetings, nominating them to speak publicly, and offering meaningful context that allows them to contribute – not just observe. For her, inclusion “isn’t about being in the room; it’s about having a voice”.
She also underscored the value of both mentorship and sponsorship. As she explained it, mentor helps you reflect and grow; a sponsor champions your name in rooms you haven’t entered yet.
Both are essential if the industry is to reach meaningful equity in leadership – particularly in insurance, she added.
“Empowered women empower women, and the best way to drive change is by showing others what’s possible,” she said.
“Don't expect to know everything. It's okay. Just surround yourself with strong people,” she added.
