Meet High-Flyer Emma Hosking - GB's Strategic Business Development Manager

Every International Women’s Day GB recognises and celebrates the accomplishments of the inspiring women we work with. All of the women featured in these interviews will represent GB at the Women in Insurance Leadership summit in May. Click here to read interviews from last year's inductees.

Emma Hosking joined GB in 2014 in the role of Scheme Account Manager/Contract Manager for South Australia. After working in several roles as part of GB's South Australian leadership team, Emma was promoted to the role of National Business Development Manager - Strategic Sales.

In this role Emma is focussed on building relationships with large employers and Government entities, and supporting them by implementing inventive new claims solutions that take advantage of new approaches to claims management, customer service and technology.

In 2017 Emma was responsible for leading GB's entry into the Northern Territory market, as both a sales lead and transition project manager for GB's provision of self insurance claims management services on behalf of the NT government.

We sat down with Emma to find out more about her career at GB.

Emma, what has been your journey to get to your current position?

As is probably the case for many people in the industry, I ‘fell into’ workers’ compensation insurance industry as a university graduate.  I worked for a state regulator, which involved working in many roles across the business, building a broad experience base and diverse range of skills

Do you think it’s important to have an International Women’s Day? 

Yes, we are still working in an industry with a proportionally small numbers of females on Boards and in Executive roles. While we have seen significant change and attitudinal shift we don’t want to drop the ball.

I also find that my two daughters who are fortunate to be growing up in a more informed balanced environment can be unaware of historical and current inequalities. Watching the movie “Hidden Figures” with them was certainly an eye opener!

Events such as International Women’s Day are important to improve awareness and ensure focus and drive to address remaining inequality.

What advice would you give to women who are considering pursuing a career within the insurance industry?

I am a strong believer in progression based on merit but make sure you are recognised for this. Have the confidence to put your hand up for opportunities that may challenge you and provide exposure but always be your authentic self. Try and surround yourself with good support both at work and in your personal life.

How have you been supported in your career?

GB has provided me with an opportunity to grow and learn. Having worked in government statutory corporation for many years, I have an ability to learn and grow in a commercial environment. Traditionally I’ve worked in more conservative roles, I never expected to end up in sales and I love being part of the GB family.  

What keeps you motivated?

New experiences, new clients and continuing to learn, combined with a strong supportive team. Laughter and fun is another essential!

Who has been the biggest influence of your success?

I have had 2 or 3 key managers who recognised my ability, gave me the opportunity and encouraged me to take on new roles and responsibilities outside my comfort zone. For example taking on a management responsibility at a young age, working on national committees and with Government Ministers, or a commercial sales role! This included support and personal growth when required - mostly to challenge me to step outside my comfort zone.

On a personal level – my family. My parents separated in the 1970s and after a significant period of absence while having children, I watched my mother recommence employment, take on further study and rebuild a successful career while juggling parenting responsibilities.  My husband has also been one of my biggest enablers. We have never assumed “traditional roles", both of us have worked part time, taken parental leave and worked in roles involving interstate travel.  

Who is a woman that inspires you the most?

I enjoyed reading Gail Kelly’s autobiography. As a leader she chose to move away from the old leadership style (top down approach) and established her presence and credibility based on her own style that was true to herself.

This focused on “generosity of spirit”.

She was also very successful balancing her career with a family life although open and honest about failures and challenging times.

Emma Hosking - General Manager, Self Insurance.jpg

Emma Hosking - National Business Development Manager

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