014: Breaking Barriers and Building Futures with Nadine Kearney

In this episode of MGAA Conversations, we sit down with Nadine Kearney, Chief Underwriting Officer at Rokstone Underwriting and an inspiring leader in the insurance industry. Nadine shares her journey from studying international insurance to spearheading innovative projects and winning the Women in Insurance Award for MGA Professional of the Year. We delve into her career milestones, her passion for fostering collaboration between claims and underwriting, and her commitment to empowering women and attracting next-generation talent to the sector.

Whether you’re an industry professional or just curious about the world of insurance, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiring stories.

Key Quotes:

“Breaking down silos between claims and underwriting is essential for driving portfolio performance and innovation. It’s about bringing everyone on the journey.”

“I don’t want a job because I’m a woman; I want it because I’ve earned it. But equally, I shouldn’t miss out because I am one.”

“We need to show young professionals the exciting opportunities in insurance—career progression, innovation, and the chance to make real impact.”

Resources:

Insurance Supper Club: A community supporting women in insurance. Explore more here - https://www.isc-group.co/en-gb/home

Learn about Rokstone Underwriting and their innovative work here - https://rokstoneuw.com/

About the Guest:

Nadine Kearney is an accomplished leader in the insurance industry with over 15 years of experience. Currently serving as the Chief Underwriting Officer for the Specialty Division at Rokstone Underwriting, Nadine has an extensive background in claims, risk, underwriting, and portfolio management. A graduate of the University of Limerick with a degree in International Insurance and European Studies, Nadine has worked with industry leaders like RSA before joining Rockstar Underwriting.

Her accolades include winning the Women in Insurance Award for Professional of the Year, and she is a passionate advocate for diversity, innovation, and the empowerment of women in the insurance sector. Nadine is also an active member of the Insurance Supper Club, mentoring and networking to support the next generation of leaders.

About the Host:

Mike's extensive expertise in the insurance sector has allowed him to witness and adapt to the dynamic shifts within the industry. Throughout his 40 year career, he has navigated the traditional realms of insurers, brokers, and MGAs (Managing General Agents) across both Commercial and Personal Lines markets.

He has held Executive positions at AXA, Midas, UK General and most recently Insurtech start up Qlaims before becoming Chief Executive Officer at the MGAA in September 2020.

Mike is excited about the new MGAA podcast series, which aims to showcase key figures in the UK insurance industry and beyond, providing insight into the challenges and opportunities that the MGA industry encounters.

Mike's LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-keating-230b8424/