Donna Mulligan | Zurich Canada

Donna Mulligan, head of middle market, Zurich Canada

“Women often want to wait until they feel fully ready for that next step and men are often more comfortable taking a bit of a risk,” says Donna Mulligan about the gap that still exists between the number of men in executive leadership roles compared with the number of women. Although not the only reason, Mulligan, head of middle market for Zurich Canada, believes it plays a big part.

With more than 20 years in the industry, Mulligan says that in her experience, male allyship should not be understated. Allyship has grown over time, she adds, most notably over the past five or six years. Inside her executive committee and her own leadership team for middle market, she feels partners and colleagues both support and champion her success, and it gives her hope it is possible for others.

Hired by Zurich in August 2020 to spearhead their re-entry into middle market, Mulligan has always been in property, casualty, and commercial insurance. She calls middle market her jam and says underwriting is in her bones.

“I’ve never wanted to be a niche expert. I always wanted my hands on everything, so I have a broader perspective that’s really helped me in my career development. I also see more female leaders and role models, not just in insurance, but across Canada on a corporate level,” she says. “I see more names, more promotions.”

That said, Mulligan also sees a large gap in technical roles that have always been male-dominated. Part of the solution, she believes, is to do a better job of outreach to high schools, colleges, and the broader community.

“Students want financial stability,” she explains, “but they often don’t even know about insurance and what a fascinating career this is. When I reach out to future talent and talk about the nearly endless possibilities, you can see their eyes light up.”

This same response can be seen in community outreach as part of the Zurich Insurance Pathways Program (ZIPP). Launched in 2021, in collaboration with the United Way Greater Toronto and the Centre for Young Black Professionals, the initiative gives underrepresented women and youth who identify as Black the opportunity to take part in experiential learning such as job shadow days and executive mentoring.

“It’s about tapping into unearthed talent, people who wouldn’t have necessarily known about insurance,” says Mulligan. “It’s now a joint program with a broker partner, and it’s one of our biggest initiatives.”

Successful collaboration is required within the industry as well, and Mulligan is quite passionate about it. From mentorship programs to peer circles, connecting aspiring women to female leaders who can help them see they can have a fulfilling and dynamic career that does not require putting in copious hours or work or sacrificing their mental health is key. Established women leaders can also help aspiring women leaders better navigate their potential.

“Don’t wait,” says Mulligan to women who may still be hesitating. “Reach out. Take a risk. Get out of your own way. Try something new. Apply for the roles you’re interested in, even if you think you’re not ready. Great things can happen.”