Numerous articles have been published recently focusing on “DEI Backlash”, exploring the growing headwinds against DEI initiatives in corporate America. Despite this, many companies remain committed to addressing inequities and fostering inclusive environments. This panel will address the challenges and criticisms DEI efforts face, with some seeing these initiatives as essential for long-term business success, while others view them as performative or divisive. This debate reflects broader societal tensions around DEI policies.

Every year, Business Insurance honors an insurance industry DEI team with the DEI Initiative of the Year award at the U.S. Insurance Awards program. This year the five finalists, honored for their exemplary DEI initiatives for making significant strides in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within their organizations and communities, will present their initiatives to conference attendees. Each leader has advanced DEI in their respective fields and also inspired others to follow in their footsteps. All attendees will receive a booklet detailing these successful programs.

Chubb The Chubb Talent Champion Program is a career equity initiative where experienced leaders collaborate with emerging talent to implement custom, goal-oriented career plans offering enhanced visibility and development opportunities. 

Lockton The Lockton Learners program partners with urban schools to identify motivated students who may not have the network to provide access to companies like Lockton.  

Munich Re America The Our Walking the Talk series allows employees to engage in small group discussions on DEI topics and creates spaces where employees feel safe to share their personal stories and ask questions 

USI Insurance Services The Career Track Early Career Recruiting Initiative offers undergraduates and graduates licensing, training and mentorship opportunities. Results show the Career Track population is more diverse in age, race and ethnicity. 

Zurich North America The Inclusion@Zurich program helps participants improve active listening skills, better understand unconscious bias and enhance their awareness of the environment they create. 

A DEI networking reception celebrating all employees within the business insurance industry. The evening will consist of great industry wide networking opportunities, cocktails and music with a DJ!

The insurance industry is frequently seen as staid and unexciting. Unlike the dynamic and fast-paced environments of Wall Street, insurance is often perceived as bureaucratic and slow to innovate. This perception can deter young, ambitious professionals who seek vibrant, cutting-edge careers. However, many of the job opportunities in the insurance world closely mirror those of Wall Street. This session will explore those similarities and discuss what this industry must do to change its image and attract talent for the future.

The industry faces a significant talent gap, driven by an aging workforce and the evolving demands of the digital age. There is a growing emphasis on attracting younger talent through targeted outreach programs and partnerships with educational institutions. This discussion will focus on the importance of fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment to appeal to a broader range of candidates, and the need for innovative and flexible recruitment strategies to build a dynamic and capable workforce for the future. This panel will feature a diverse group of experts, each bringing unique perspectives from their varied backgrounds in academia and industry to foster a rich and dynamic discussion, and to present available opportunities in the industry.

Given the 30% risk in Equal Employment Opportunity grievances in 2023, and the 15-30% rise in Employment Practices Liability premiums, learn how the future of DEI will be impacted.

Did you know that DEI Grievances are tied to Insurance Claims? Join us to learn how the industry is putting a price on a lack-of-inclusion with this panel of experts.