The Managing General Agents' Association (MGAA) has opened registrations for the third cohort of its Next Gen Mentoring Scheme, with applications accepted until the end of September 2025. Sponsored by AXA XL, the programme is designed to support and empower young professionals in the MGA sector, while building long-lasting connections across the insurance community. The scheme will officially begin in November 2025 after mentees are paired with their mentors.
Developing the next generation of MGA leaders
The mentoring scheme was created to strengthen the pipeline of talent in the MGA market at a time when concerns persist about the industry losing expertise over the next five years. It seeks to promote both professional and personal development, create opportunities for meaningful networking, and raise the visibility of the Next Gen Committee within the MGAA.
The initiative reflects a growing recognition across the insurance sector of the need to attract, retain, and develop younger talent. MGAs, known for their entrepreneurial and specialist approach, depend on skilled professionals to maintain competitiveness and adapt to a fast-changing regulatory and risk environment.
Mentorship as a retention tool
MGAA chief executive Mike Keating said the success of the first two cohorts showed the practical impact of mentoring. Under the co-leadership of Charlotte Harrison and Thomas Pereira, the programme is positioned as a two-way exchange of ideas between generations, providing value to both mentors and mentees.
Mentorship has been shown to bring measurable benefits across the industry. Studies cited by the MGAA indicated that 97% of those with a mentor found the relationship valuable, while 87% of both mentors and mentees felt empowered and reported greater career satisfaction. Mentorship can also reduce the likelihood of burnout, a growing concern in a high-pressure sector.
Industry-wide focus on talent
The MGAA initiative comes at a time when insurers, brokers, and industry bodies are investing heavily in workforce development.
The Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) has been expanding training and professional development pathways, while the Association of British Insurers (ABI) has been vocal about the importance of making the sector attractive to a new generation of employees. Global brokers and carriers have also launched their own mentoring, apprenticeship, and graduate recruitment schemes in recognition of the fact that skills shortages could undermine growth and innovation.
The MGAA is now encouraging early-career professionals from its member firms to register as mentees. At the same time, it is seeking mentors with at least 15 years of industry experience who are willing to share their expertise.
By bringing together seasoned professionals and the next generation, the association aims to help close the talent gap and ensure the MGA sector remains resilient, innovative, and fit for the future.
