Agenda at a Glance 

Thursday, October 2, 2025
8:30 AM - 9:00 AM
Registration & breakfast
 
9:00 AM - 9:05 AM
Welcome
 
9:05 AM - 9:10 AM
Opening Remarks
 
9:10 AM - 9:50 AM
Panel discussion: Mentorship and support for career returnees
  • The role of mentorship in re-skilling and confidence-building.
  • Structured programs to guide returnees into managerial roles
  • Supporting those returning from extended career breaks including maternity leave, medical leave and caregiving.
  • Balancing flexibility with professional growth.

Moderator: Fiona Robertson, Editor, Insurance Insider 

Speakers: Jo Browning, Chief People Officer, Markel 

9:50 AM - 10:30 AM
Panel discussion: Recruitment, returnship and support strategies for second-career professionals
  • Recruitment channels: Where and how to find second-career professionals focusing on the links between community and corporate institutions.
  • The role of partnerships with universities, job boards, and other channels
  • Designing inclusive hiring processes for career changes.
  • Showcasing success stories from second-career professionals in insurance

Moderator: Fiona Robertson, Editor, Insurance Insider 

Speakers:  

William Gallimore, Managing Director, HFG 

Cristina Galindo, Director, Sustainability Talent 

Farris Salah, Head of Smart Follow, Apollo 

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Refreshments & Networking

Wrap up the morning with more opportunities to connect and continue the conversation. This is a great chance to network with peers, share insights and personal experiences, and build meaningful relationships with fellow professionals across the insurance industry.