Every International Women’s Day, GB recognises and celebrates the accomplishments of the inspiring women we work with. This year we asked our GB fam to nominate an inspiring woman that they work with, and we were overwhelmed with many worthy nominations. After a tough process, nine women were selected to be profiled for 2021, based on their amazing leadership and accomplishments over the past 12 months.

All of the women featured in these interviews will represent GB at the Women in Insurance Leadership Summit.

Meet Julia, a knowledgeable, supportive and encouraging member of the Gallagher Bassett family.

Julia is a Branch Manager in GB’s Victorian Workers’ Compensation team, and an inspiring female leader who is extraordinarily strong and capable.

Julia was recognised by her colleagues for encouraging participation amongst her team, and inspiring them to express their opinions and find better ways of doing things.

We recently sat down with Julia to find out more about her.

What is your role and tenure?
Branch Manager – 9.5 years at GB

What motivates or drives your passion for the insurance/risk management industry? Would you recommend this industry for the next generation of women entering the workforce?
The day to day challenges that this industry presents creates an environment where you are always learning. Whether it is about Workcover, management, communication or personal growth, the ever-changing environment is always able to test your resolve and resilience on every level.

I would recommend this industry for the next generation of women as it is definitely an industry that doesn’t discriminate and your gender does not define or impact your career path or achievements. It helps you build strength and character while preparing you to face any adversity in and out of the workplace.

There are so many lessons to be learnt within this environment to help build and develop your own character.

What do you like most about Gallagher Bassett in five words or less?
A caring work family.

How is Gallagher Bassett helping you face your future with confidence?
The confidence that GB has put into the flexible working arrangements for staff really shows they have listened to what staff want and demonstrated a trust in their own staff. The benefits of this for all staff is enormous and hopefully the business also sees productivity and efficiency gains.

For me, the COVID-19 period has really given me an opportunity to re-assess my priorities and how to balance my lifestyle. I believe this has improved my work life balance immensely and this would not be possible without the support and optimism of GB. It would be difficult for any company to innovate and take advantage of positives from the pandemic, however I think GB has taken leaps forward in this space. GB has set an example of how to manage our new work environment and highlighted the importance of our relationships, leadership and other key indicators to ensure a successful, and happy outcome.

Who is your inspiration or role model?
A tough question as there are many people who I have gained inspiration from over the years so to name one would be unjust. People who demonstrate the behaviours and characteristics of the human spirit, without seeking recognition, always inspire me.

What does equality mean to you? And what is your commitment to helping forge women’s equality?
Equality is the recognition that we are all the same and deserving of being treated equally. We all deserve to be treated the same as others regardless of our place in the world. In turn, we also have an obligation to treat others with the same respect which is my commitment to helping forge women’s equality.

My behaviour should be unwavering and effortless to humans regardless of gender to demonstrate all men and women should be treated based on merit – not gender.

My passion for sports and activities allows me to support, participate and promote the achievements of women in this environment. Hopefully, encouraging more women to participate and have a go at something that has so many positive benefits for life.