A strong network
It is clear that the London Market is striving to improve diversity and inclusion. September’s Dive In Festival for diversity and inclusion in insurance is evidence of this. The Lloyd’s Blueprint One also looks to address the issues faced across the market.
Blueprint One highlights that the most talented people will be attracted to the market because of the diverse environment that allows them to thrive. This requires representing all aspects of diversity to better reflect and respond to the societies in which we operate. The results of the first Lloyd’s culture survey show that there is still a lot to do.
As chair of Link, the cross-insurance industry LGBT network, I have seen an improvement from an inclusion perspective for LGBT people, from both existing and new talent perspectives. Despite this, there is further work needed, perhaps most notably outlined by the lack of insurance representation on the Stonewall 100 Equality Index.
An increased number of LGBT Employee Resource Groups have been established, creating a network for LGBT individuals to thrive. More work, however, is needed to address the intersectional issues faced by many, such as those experienced by LGBT black and minority ethnic individuals.
It is clear that most realise the importance of a diverse workforce, and can make the commercial link between the two. There is often support at the most senior levels within firms, but it is often middle management who are the blockers to progress and change.
At Link, our mission is to attract and retain the best LGBT talent in the industry. We do this through education and events, to drive forward change in the industry. We are looking to connect the dots among the industry, share best practice and use our size, influence and support to root out discrimination.
The industry could do more, in terms of PR, about promoting itself as a fantastic area to work, with varied opportunities and opportunity for progression. Portraying an image of inclusion, with a diverse workforce to support this, will be key.
Maurice Rose is risk and regulatory manager, PwC, and co-chair, Link, the LGBT insurance network.
www.lgbtinsurancenetwork.co.uk
