At Jensten Network, our Women in Insurance campaign celebrates the incredible women driving change and inspiring others in the industry. This month, we shine a spotlight on Laura Gillard, the newly appointed Head of Network Development at Coversure, whose passion and drive are a perfect example of why we need more women at every level in this industry.
A humble start to a strong rise
“I literally walked past the AXA building in Coventry and thought, ‘That’s a big gold building. I like that. I wonder what they do?’ That was it.”
It’s a refreshingly honest start. No grand plan, just curiosity. But that moment sparked a 15-year career across insurance and financial services. Laura worked her way up by setting goals, embracing every learning curve and building relationships. “I’ve always been aspirational,” she says. “And that applies to every area of my life. I set clear goals, both short and long term. And then I map out how I’ll get there.”
Laura’s story is a reminder that you don’t need to know everything on day one. You just need to be open to growth, stay hungry for progress and surround yourself with people who bring out the best in you.
A new chapter with Coversure
Joining Coversure during an exciting period of growth, Laura is enthusiastic about what lies ahead. Now, as Head of Network Development, Laura leads the team of Franchise Development Executives (FDEs) and plays a key role in shaping the support that Jensten Network offers to network members. “My priority is to ensure we continue to deliver excellent service while supporting growth across the network. It’s about working with existing strategies and identifying new opportunities to help our network members succeed, whilst striving for great customer outcomes.”
Coversure and the wider Jensten Group are growing with high ambitions for the future and a clear strategy to achieve them. The relationship between us and our network is one-of-a-kind, it’s a shared success story. The positive culture here is infectious and I’m delighted to be part of it.
Laura Gillard, Head of Network Development at Coversure
The power of mentors, networks and mindsets
Laura credits much of her success to building a strong network and being open to learning – this is something she encourages all women to build from day one. “Every encounter can have a positive influence if you’re open-minded. I’ve had mentors from very different backgrounds who’ve challenged me and helped me grow.”
For women who might be reluctant to enter the insurance industry, Laura’s encouragement is clear: “Your uniqueness is your superpower. Own it. Lead with it.”
Be bold. Be brave. Take the risk. Even if at first you fail, you’ve still gained confidence, knowledge and resilience. Someone’s already walked the path you’re on and made those mistakes. So ask them how they did it and how they overcame those hurdles.
Laura Gillard, Head of Network Development at Coversure
Facing challenges head-on
For women worried about breaking into a traditionally male industry, Laura’s been there. She’s experienced the assumptions and subtle undermining many young women face. “There was a time I visited a client and he said, ‘When’s your boss getting here?’ I had to explain that I was the one managing the business relationship and share with him my credentials. I didn’t see it as a blocker, it was just an objection to overcome.”
And while the industry is changing for the better, she notes that sometimes the hardest treatment has come from other women: “There can be competitiveness, but I take great pride in supporting others and seeing like-minded women succeed. My focus has always been to stay true to myself and support others.”
Redefining what the industry looks like
Laura is inspired by how far the industry has come but knows there’s still work to do. “We’re seeing more women in leadership and more diverse voices at the table. It’s not just a trend – it’s happening authentically and it’s exciting.”
She credits campaigns like Jensten Network’s Women in Insurance initiative for pushing the industry forward. “This campaign says to women: You belong here. You are enough. You have something valuable to offer, even if no one else in the room looks like you.”
Balance, purpose and the future
Whilst Laura is committed to building her career, she also understands the importance of not sacrificing her personal life. Outside of work, Laura is planning her wedding, travelling when she can and sticking to her gym routine. “Time is the one thing you never get back. So I always ask – is this urgent? Is it important? If not, it is within my gift to schedule it when it makes sense.”
Looking ahead, she sees herself growing with Jensten Network: “The business has great aspirations and I’m excited to be part of making those happen. I naturally seek out the next big challenge, so watch this space!”
We need more women in this industry – not because it’s a box-ticking exercise, but because we bring value, empathy, innovation and fresh perspectives. The more diverse our industry is, the stronger and more successful it becomes.
Laura Gillard, Head of Network Development at Coversure
Feeling inspired?
Jensten Network is committed to creating an inclusive, supportive space where women can thrive. To learn more about joining our network, contact a member of our team.
