PwC kicked off 2019’s Dive In Festival by asking how technology in insurance can be used to create attractive, culturally inclusive and purposeful working environment that represents women and men playing an equal part in creating and developing the new tech products and services that are shaping our world.
The question was put in sharp focus by 11-year-old Sienna, PwC UK Tech We Can participant, who having taken a morning off school, opened the event by asking attendees to create a future that she can be part of.
As the audience reflected on what they can do to create an industry that is attractive for the younger generation, Amanda Blanc, former CEO of Zurich EMEA and AXA UK & Ireland, delivered key notes and reflected on her experiences in the industry. Amanda gave the audience a clear three-point action for progressing the D&I agenda:
- Find organisations where ‘behaviours’ are the right, not just the policies. Look beyond the ticked boxes and follow those who are actually adopting inclusive behaviours.
- Find the D&I heroes in your organisations, those who champion diversity and recognise potential, and follow them.
- Have the confidence to put yourself forward, what’s the worst that can happen? Be confident in your aspirations and asking for what you want.
A panel, chaired by Insurance Insider’s managing editor Catrin Shi featured Sheridan Ash, PwC UK Women in Technology Leader; Caroline Bedford, DXC Technology Digital Minds; Helene Kubon, PwC Norway Data Analytics Leader; and Jim Bichard PwC UK Insurance Leader. Panellists discussed the technologies that can help create a more inclusive cultures and highlighted the importance of a diversity of thought in great innovation.
Change, Caroline Badford pointed out, must be invested in. Just as we do with technology, if we keep seeking change, we will create a working environment that is ready for the future.