In a presentation to mark the beginning of the Inclusion@Lloyd's Dive In festival, Nicolas Aubert, CEO of Willis GB, called on the insurance industry to embrace diversity.
In a challenge to the status-quo, Aubert said the industry needs to employ a truly meritocratic approach. “Willis is a very proud sponsor of Dive In. We are committed to playing our part in improving the talent pipeline in our industry so that the best individuals get to the top, regardless of gender, race, sexuality or nationality. Only by employing a true meritocracy can firms in our sector ensure they give themselves the best chance to succeed over the long term.”
He said that embracing diversity is the key to long term business success. “People with different experiences and backgrounds can enrich our business with diversity of thought, skills and creative ideas. They can help us provide valuable insight from different perspectives to help us better serve global clients, respond to new challenges and reach out to new markets.”
“Diverse teams get better results,” he continued. “They can challenge ideas, make us more innovative, more competitive and ultimately more successful. Having a diverse workforce makes good business sense. Strength lies in differences, not in similarities.”
Yet that sentiment has still not fed into workforces, noted Aubert. As an example more than 96% of Fortune 500 CEOs are still male, he said. Several other minority groups, such as disabled employees, are also underrepresented in many markets.
“Despite the obvious benefits, progress has been slow and many people still face limitations or discrimination at work,” added Aubert. “That's why this festival is so important. This is where we start to shift the conversation. Our goal is to affect real change in the industry, both in terms of enabling people to unlock their potential, achieve their aspirations and attract new talent to the insurance industry.”
Dive In events will be hosted at venues across EC3 from 29 September – 2 October 2015, to raise awareness about the benefits of a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture. Speakers at these events include; Karren Brady, John Barnes, Lord John Browne, Jane Hill, Marcus Trescothick, Angie Peacock and Gok Wan.