024: From returner to role model: Navigating Motherhood, Career, and Leadership with Laura Harvey

In this episode, Sandra speaks to the amazing Laura Harvey, Director and Head of the Property Desk at the Davies Group. Laura is a mum of two beautiful children and was highly commended at the 2023 Women in Insurance Event for the most inspiring returner. Laura shares her journey in the insurance industry and discusses the challenges faced by women, particularly during key life stages. She emphasizes the importance of open and honest conversations between employees and employers and the need for supportive policies and a culture that recognizes and accommodates personal needs. Sandra and Laura also discuss the issue of sexual harassment at industry events and suggest ways to prevent such behaviour. For example, it highlights the importance of team-building activities that cater to the needs of all participants and move away from a heavy drinking culture. Instead, create fully inclusive events that challenge the norm and change behaviours. The conversation also emphasizes the importance of thinking outside the box for networking events and the value of smaller, more intimate gatherings. There is a lot to take away from this episode, and we hope you enjoy it. Takeaways Open and honest conversations between employees and employers are crucial for navigating personal and professional challenges. Supportive policies and a culture that recognizes and accommodates personal needs are essential for retaining and empowering employees. Companies should strive to prevent sexual harassment at industry events by creating inclusive and respectful environments. Flexibility in working arrangements benefits employees and the business, increasing productivity and employee satisfaction. The insurance industry should move towards more engaging and inclusive events. Create team-building activities that cater to the needs of all participants. Shift away from a heavy drinking culture at events. Challenge the norm and change behaviours to create fully inclusive events. Think outside the box for networking events and provide options for staff members. Value smaller, more intimate gatherings for better networking opportunities. Experience the diversity of the insurance industry and learn from different perspectives.