A Letter To My Younger Self

I was born in New Zealand and moved to Australia in 1981. Looking back, it’s remarkable to see how your career will unfold - from those first steps in the financial services industry to leading SCOR Global Life Australia & New Zealand as CEO. When you start out, women in life insurance leadership are few and far between; you’ll often find yourself one of the only women at the table. Over more than 26 years, you’ll take on roles that challenge and inspire you: managing operational teams at CommInsure and Westpac, then driving innovation and client engagement on a global scale at SCOR. Each chapter will bring new lessons in leadership, resilience, and the power of collaboration.

You’ll remember the early days - learning the ropes in life insurance, sometimes feeling out of your depth, but always determined to deliver for customers and your team. There’ll be moments of pride, like leading award-winning teams and being recognized with the Women in Financial Services Award. These milestones will remind you that hard work, curiosity, and a willingness to step up open doors you never imagined.

One of the most enduring lessons you’ll learn is about trust. You’ll recognize the critical importance of balancing customer value as you navigate constant change. Trust is an invaluable asset - one that can take years to build but only moments to lose. Whenever you face decisions, always remember how essential it is to protect and nurture the trust placed in you. By doing so, you’ll strengthen relationships and reputations. Trust is what truly sustains us in the long run, so guard it diligently.

You’ll learn that leadership isn’t about titles or authority, but about service, vision, and the courage to bring others with you. Early in your career, you’ll be eager to prove yourself - working hard, seeking recognition, and sometimes feeling the weight of expectations. Remember: the most meaningful impact comes not from individual achievement, but from empowering those around you.

You’ll discover that the best teams are built on trust, diversity, and a shared sense of purpose. Seek out voices different from your own. Listen deeply, especially when it’s uncomfortable. The moments you feel uncertain are often the ones that lead to the greatest growth. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or to admit when you don’t have all the answers - true strength lies in vulnerability and curiosity. But never be afraid to speak the truth.

There will be setbacks - projects that don’t go as planned, decisions you’ll second-guess, and times when the path forward seems unclear. Treat these moments as opportunities to learn. Every challenge will teach you something about resilience, adaptability, and the importance of staying true to your values. You’ll find that integrity and consistency earn trust far more than perfection ever could.

Mentorship will become a cornerstone of your journey. You’ll be fortunate to find mentors who believe in you, and you’ll pay it forward by supporting others - whether through formal programs or simply by listening and encouraging. The relationships you build will sustain you through both the highs and lows. Remember, leadership is a privilege - use your influence to lift others, create space for new ideas, and champion inclusion.

Innovation will be your ally. Embrace change, experiment boldly, and don’t be afraid to disrupt the status quo. The world - and our industry - will evolve rapidly. Stay curious, keep learning, and encourage your teams to do the same. Celebrate progress, not just outcomes. You’ll help lead SCOR through digital transformation, championing new ways of working and thinking.

As you step into roles with greater responsibility, never lose sight of the human side of leadership. Celebrate your team’s wins, acknowledge their efforts, and support them through challenges. People will remember how you made them feel - valued, heard, and empowered.

As you grow, you’ll become a mother to two remarkable girls, Zoe and Mia (by the time you read this, 12 and 14!). Watching them discover their strengths and navigate their own journeys will be one of your greatest joys. You’ll often wonder: will they face the same challenges you did? Will the world be more open, more equitable, and more supportive for them? You’ll realize that while progress is real, the journey isn’t over. There will still be barriers to break and biases to challenge. But you’ll also see hope - in the conversations you start, the teams you build, and the culture you help shape. You’ll work not just for your own success, but to create a future where Zoe, Mia, and all young women can thrive without limits.

Finally, remember to look after yourself. Leadership is a marathon, not a sprint. Make time for reflection, family, and the passions that energise you. Your wellbeing is not a luxury; it’s essential to sustaining your impact.

If I could offer one piece of advice, it would be this: Lead with purpose, humility, and heart. The journey will be richer - and your legacy more meaningful - because of it.