As part of our Women’s Day special series, TVW News India and Entrepreneur News Network are celebrating women leaders who are breaking barriers and redefining industries. In this exclusive interaction, we speak with Pooja Yadav, Chief Product Officer at Zuno General Insurance Limited, a trailblazer in insurance, risk management, and underwriting.
From navigating a male-dominated industry to driving innovation and diversity, Pooja shares her inspirational journey, the challenges she has overcome, and her vision for the future of women in finance and insurance. She also offers valuable insights on mentorship, leadership, and work-life balance, making this a must-read for aspiring professionals.
Let’s dive into this powerful conversation with Pooja Yadav, a leader shaping the future of insurance.
What inspired you to pursue a career in insurance, risk management, and underwriting? Can you share highlights of your journey?
My journey into the insurance industry was fuelled by a passion for problem-solving and a desire to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives. Insurance, as an intangible product, represents a promise to support customers in their time of need. It sits at the intersection of people, technology, data, and innovation. The dynamic nature of risk management captivated me, as it blends analytical skills with strategic thinking.
The insurance industry has traditionally been male dominated. What challenges have you faced as a woman in leadership, and how did you overcome them?
Navigating a male-dominated industry has undoubtedly presented its challenges. Early in my career, I often found myself as the sole woman in the room, which underscored the importance of contributing unique perspectives and making a significant impact. I prioritized building a robust professional network and actively sought mentors who offered invaluable guidance and support. Moreover, I committed to continuous upskilling and staying abreast of industry trends, which bolstered my credibility and confidence as a leader.
How do you see the role of women evolving in risk management and underwriting? What changes have you observed over the years?
The role of women in risk management and underwriting has evolved significantly. More women are now taking on leadership roles and bringing diverse perspectives to the table. Over the years, I’ve observed a growing recognition of the value that women bring to these fields, particularly in terms of empathy, collaboration, and innovative thinking. Companies are increasingly prioritizing gender diversity, which is fostering a more inclusive and dynamic work environment.
What initiatives or policies do you believe can help encourage more women to take on leadership roles in insurance and risk management?
To encourage more women to take on leadership roles, companies should implement mentorship programs, provide flexible work arrangements, and actively promote gender diversity at all levels. Additionally, creating a supportive culture that values and recognizes the contributions of women is crucial. Policies that address unconscious bias and provide equal opportunities for career advancement can also make a significant difference.
What advice would you give to young women looking to enter the fields of insurance, finance, and risk management?
My advice to young women entering these fields is to embrace the vast opportunities available. This sector is tightly coupled with economic growth, is undergoing a multi-decadal growth cycle and offers exposure to a wide variety of domains. Whether you enjoy dealing with data, solving complex problems, interacting with customers, or driving innovation, there is something for everyone.
Life stage changes, such as becoming a parent or taking on elder care responsibilities, can be challenging. Investing in a support group—family, friends, domestic helpers, caregivers—can help free up your bandwidth. When the odds seem high, it’s important to stay focused on your career and avoid dropping out of the professional track, as re-entering and managing a high-growth trajectory can be difficult in a competitive job environment.
Keep upskilling yourself, stay updated on regulatory changes, and nurture your professional network. Staying on top of emerging technologies will also help you grow in this industry.
Can you share a key lesson from your career or a mentor who has inspired your professional growth?
One key lesson I’ve learned is the critical importance of forging and nurturing deep professional bonds with senior stakeholders and sponsors who can advocate for you. Informal networking opportunities are essential for building a supportive professional tribe. Additionally, it’s vital to cultivate and groom future leaders within your team, fostering an empowering work environment that encourages growth and innovation.
As the saying goes, “When there are no ceilings, the sky is the limit.” This mindset has driven me to break barriers and strive for excellence in my career.
What does Women’s Day mean to you, and how do you think the insurance industry can better support and uplift women professionals?
Women’s Day is a celebration of the achievements and contributions of women across all fields. It’s a reminder of the progress we’ve made and the work that still needs to be done. The insurance industry can better support and uplift women professionals by fostering an inclusive culture, providing equal opportunities for growth, and actively working to eliminate gender biases. By doing so, we can create a more equitable and dynamic industry for everyone.
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