Karen Bhoorasingh’s journey to leadership
AS we celebrate International Women’s Day, it is imperative to applaud the accomplishments of women who have shattered barriers and ignited inspiration in their respective fields. We highlight the remarkable journey and leadership of Karen Bhoorasingh, the president of Guardian General Insurance Jamaica Limited, offering insights into her experiences, successes, and perspectives on gender diversity within the insurance sector.
Bhoorasingh reflects on her journey to leadership, emphasising that it was not a predetermined path, but rather a gradual evolution. Driven by a passion for the insurance industry, she found herself at the helm of one of Jamaica’s largest and most profitable general insurance companies. Her story serves as testament to the potent synergy between passion and opportunity, showcasing the possibilities that unfold when dedication meets a conducive environment.
She admits being in love with insurance from a young age; growing up in May Pen, Clarendon, the relationship started at her parents’ insurance brokerage firm where she spent holidays.
She pursued a first degree in public administration from The University of the West Indies, then studied insurance at CII Insurance College in England. Her educational journey saw her getting a bachelor of law degree from the University of London, following which she received her legal education certificate from Norman Manley Law School. She was called to the bar in 2009.
In her role as a female leader in the insurance sector, Bhoorasingh dispels common narratives by expressing her gratitude for not encountering significant challenges due to being female.
“I attribute this positive experience to the utmost respect I received from colleagues of the opposite sex during my tenure,” she opines. She underscores the importance of fostering a workplace culture that values and respects diversity, highlighting the conducive environment that has allowed her to thrive.
Bhoorasingh’s career is punctuated by two standout achievements: leading one of the largest and most profitable general insurance companies in Jamaica, and successfully integrating two entities to form Guardian General Insurance Jamaica Limited. There is no doubt these accomplishments underscore her strategic vision and leadership acumen, positioning her as a trailblazer in the industry.
Human Resources practitioner Sharon Brown emerges as a pivotal figure in Bhoorasingh’s career. Described as being both an outstanding professional and an extraordinary person, Bhoorasingh notes that Brown’s influence underscores the significance of mentorship and positive role models in shaping leadership trajectories.
In recognising the importance of mentoring and empowering women, Bhoorasingh actively contributes to inspiring and guiding other women in the insurance industry. Through one-on-one conversations and mentoring sessions, she imparts knowledge and guidance, particularly to young women aspiring to excel in the sector.
Bhoorasingh has observed a significant shift in the role of women in the insurance industry over the years. She notes, “From predominantly male leadership, the industry has evolved to embrace approximately 40 per cent of women in leadership positions, with even greater representation in second-tier leadership roles.”
The president notes that approximately 80 per cent of the workforce at Guardian General Insurance Jamaica, including leadership positions, comprises women. This statistic reflects the company’s commitment to gender equality, serving as a model for fostering diversity within the workplace.
Highlighting numerous opportunities for women in transforming the insurance industry, Bhoorasingh emphasises the need for new talent. As the sector evolves, she sees women playing crucial roles in areas such as data protection and analytics, actively contributing to and benefiting from advancements that shape the future of the sector.
On International Women’s Day, Bhoorasingh takes pride in the company’s community initiatives focused on women. Guardian General Insurance collaborates with the Jamaica Cancer Society to raise awareness about cervical cancer, where a percentage of premiums collected from the company’s ‘QueenGuard’ product which caters to female motor vehicle owners, will go towards supporting cervical cancer initiatives.
To manage balancing work and personal life in her executive role, especially with the intrusion of technology, Bhoorasingh enforces specific time spent at home with her family. Her advice to other women, “Allocate personal time, even if it means switching off phones“.
Addressing the topic of gender diversity and leadership, Bhoorasingh acknowledges Jamaica’s remarkable representation of women in managerial roles, emphasising its positive impact on the insurance industry. She notes that Guardian General Insurance actively fosters gender diversity through training, exposure within the Guardian Group, and support for leadership opportunities.
As an insurance executive, Bhoorasingh aspires to leave a legacy where Guardian General Insurance remains an industry leader and an employer of choice. Her vision for the company’s future under her leadership includes maintaining market dominance while ensuring sustained profitability.
In commemorating International Women’s Day, the story of Guardian General President Karen Bhoorasingh serves as an inspiration to women aspiring to leadership roles within the insurance industry. Her journey, achievements, and commitment to diversity and mentorship encapsulate the theme #InspireInclusion, fostering a future where women continue to shape and lead the insurance landscape.
