In the latest #TIATalks podcast (episode 8), I had the privilege of sharing insights into my journey and the values that have shaped my career in the risk and insurance sector.
The episode centered on themes that are close to my heart – starting from humble beginnings, the profound impact of changing just one person’s life, and the importance of empowering employees to thrive.
Starting from the bottom
Like many in the insurance industry, my career didn’t start at the top. I worked my way up, learning the ropes and understanding the intricacies of the industry from the ground level. This experience taught me invaluable lessons, such as the importance of humility, persistence, and resilience. In a sector that can sometimes feel intimidating, starting from the bottom provided me with a solid foundation of knowledge and a clear understanding of what it takes to succeed.
In the early stages, I found that the journey isn’t always easy, but it’s precisely that struggle and hard work that builds character. Whether you’re entering the industry as an intern, a junior, or even a mid-level professional, taking on challenges early in your career shapes your abilities and provides you with the skills necessary to rise through the ranks. Embracing every learning opportunity and showing up with an open mind is key to long-term success.
The ripple effect
A crucial part of my journey has been the opportunity to change one person’s life. Whether through mentorship, guidance, or simply offering support in a critical moment, the impact of lifting someone up can be life-changing. I’m a firm believer that a single action, a word of encouragement, or a piece of advice can set a person on a completely new trajectory.
The lesson here is simple: when you help someone grow, you not only elevate their career, but you create an environment where they, in turn, help others. That’s how you build an organisation that thrives—one person at a time.
The key to building a thriving team
As a leader, I am passionate about empowering employees. One of the greatest responsibilities we have as managers is to foster an environment where individuals feel valued, respected, and capable of achieving their goals. This is especially true in the context of risk management and insurance, where the challenges are often complex, and creative problem-solving is essential.
Empowering employees isn’t just about providing them with the resources they need to do their jobs. It’s about creating an atmosphere where they feel trusted to take initiative and make decisions. It’s about giving them the confidence to voice their ideas, share feedback, and take ownership of their work.
When you empower your employees, they will go above and beyond for the organisation. That’s because they feel invested in the success of the team. It’s not just about the bottom line; it’s about creating a culture where everyone is striving for excellence. I’ve seen firsthand the impact of this approach. Employees who feel empowered tend to be more engaged, more innovative, and more committed to their work.
Leading with purpose and heart
The message I wanted to convey in the TIA podcast is one of purpose and empowerment. Starting from the bottom provides a solid foundation, but the real magic happens when you invest in the people around you—whether that’s by changing one person’s life or creating an environment where employees can thrive.
As we continue to build the future of the insurance industry, let’s remember that the greatest asset we have is the people we work with. When we lead with heart, we can change lives and create organisations that don’t just succeed, but also make a meaningful difference.
Marisa Grundling
Head of Department: Risk and Insurance
Milpark Education