Representing in reinsurance and beyond

Dawn Dinkins, COO AXA XL Re, was recently named a role model by iCAN, the network that supports multicultural inclusion across the insurance sector. Dawn, who was born in Jamaica, and worked in the United States for many years before moving to the United Kingdom, discusses her career, the importance of mentors and the lessons she has learned about leadership and success along the way.

Q. Can you tell us a little about your career to date? 
I’ve been in the insurance industry for 36 years and with the company for 31 of those. I began my career as a claims adjuster on the insurance side before moving into reinsurance as a claims handler. Something that has been key to my career has been that it’s never felt like the same job. I’ve always been curious about how things work in the rest of the organisation.  I’ve got involved in projects that gave me a broader exposure, like working on the design of our core claim systems and an making  our payment processes more efficient, for example. This has given me great foundational knowledge about how the different functions of the company work together. I eventually was promoted to head of North American reinsurance claims. During that time I continued to seek broader exposure, learning more about how the claim operations outside North America worked and contributing to bringing more consistency to our claims activities.  
The knowledge and skills I gained through my involvement in these projects were instrumental in preparing me for my current role as COO, where I am now responsible for claims, operations and IT.

Q. What are some of the important lessons you have learned and what advice would you give to others seeking to progress in the industry?
It has sometimes been scary, but some of my best growth has come from those moments when I have gone outside of my comfort zone. Mentors and managers that I have had have been incredibly important – I was fortunate to have managers who saw more in me than perhaps I saw in myself. They challenged me through stretch assignments, which pushed me beyond my comfort zone, instilling in me the confidence that I could achieve more and fostering a willingness to take more risks. I’d say that the lesson is don’t be afraid to pursue or say yes to opportunities beyond your current knowledge. It is often during those times that growth occurs.  
   
As you become more senior you need to develop different skills.  As a recovering perfectionist, I had to learn that I couldn’t - and shouldn’t - know all the details. I needed to become comfortable with delegating and accepting that I didn’t always have to have all the answers. I realised that I wanted to lead in a way that I would like to be led.  I also took the time to reflect on the kind of leader I aspired to be and how I wanted to show up.  I adapted my approach and decided that if I led in a way that aligned with my values, I couldn’t go wrong.  The important lesson is to give yourself the space to learn, seeking guidance from mentors and peers you admire, and understanding the importance of balancing work with self-care to ensure you are the best version of yourself for your team.  This balance is crucial for resilience.  Ultimately knowing why you’re doing what you do provides clarity and purpose.  

Q. Why is it important to recognise role models? And what is a role model to you? 
I am so honoured to have been selected as role model by iCAN, which aims to support and inspire people of all different stripes to succeed in our industry. 
I’d like to think that my selection as a role model, as a senior woman in the industry from an immigrant background, is a reflection of my hard work over the years. I’d like to be an inspiration for people who look like me. 
Representation really matters. When I started in this industry there were hardly any women, and certainly not many women of colour. I would be thrilled if my selection could inspire others.
I believe a role model is someone who is successful in their work, regardless of their level.  But it’s not just that. A role model exemplifies behaviours, values and actions for others to emulate. For me, they possess qualities that I admire - for example, kindness, integrity, professionalism and inspiring others. I believe these human elements are essential to guiding and uplifting others and to helping to bring people along on the journey and fostering personal and professional growth.  

Q. Who do you see as a role model and why?
Michelle Obama is someone with absolute grace and smarts. She has handled challenges adroitly and with intelligence. She never goes low, she always goes high. The way she communicates is inspiring.
She too came from humble beginnings and with a combination of intelligence, excellence and humility, she has succeeded. 

Q. You mentioned how important it is to strike a balance. How do you relax outside of work?
I love to run. And that is really all about my mental wellbeing, it makes me resilient and helps to give me clarity.
I also love to travel to see different places and to meet people. I’m fascinated by, and enjoying learning about, different cultures. And I very much see those differences as strengths. 

The iCAN role models book can be downloaded here.