This International Women’s Day, we’re recognising an inspiring woman whose career journey at Jensten shows just how far belief, resilience and opportunity can take you.
When Emma joined Jensten, then Policyfast, 16 years ago, she didn’t yet know she was stepping into the career that would shape her future. At the time, she was managing a pub restaurant and “wanted stability and progression… something that would challenge me. Like many people in insurance, I fell into it without realising what it could become.” What she found was a career that would continue to stretch, inspire and fulfil her.
From Trainee Underwriter to Team Leader
Emma’s insurance journey began as a trainee underwriter in the Property and Retail team. She quickly discovered a passion for the technical and relational sides of underwriting. Her early years were spent training new starters, strengthening broker relationships, and building confidence as she progressed into a team leader role. These formative experiences shaped her understanding of the market and her belief in the power of strong partnerships.
Developing products and growing her network
Always ready for the next challenge, Emma transitioned into product development, opening the door to a new role supporting Coversure, Jensten’s franchise network, as part of an internal business development function.
In the Product Development team, Emma:
- Built and tested new products
- Worked closely with insurers
- Expanded her professional network
- Learned how product and distribution teams align
Here she honed skills in sales, negotiation and brokerage support – foundations that would contribute to future roles.
Business Development across a growing Group
As the Jensten Group expanded, so did Emma’s responsibilities. She became a Business Development Manager with her own geographical region, including non-Group brokers. With new scheme businesses joining the Group and the acquisition of a London Market broker, Emma thrived in the fast pace and variety, helping brokers place business across an increasingly diverse marketplace.
Her next step was Strategic Account Manager, supporting all Jensten Insurance Brokers and Coversure offices. She excelled in aligning Group strategy with broker aspirations, supporting scheme development, and connecting the wholesale and retail arms of the business to achieve shared success.
Connecting wholesale and retail, aligning strategies and building partnerships is where I really found my stride.
Emma van Vliet, Network Development Manager at Jensten Network
A new chapter: Supporting the growth of Jensten Network
Today, Emma is part of the Network division as Network Development Manager, helping:
- Aspiring entrepreneurs launch their own brokerages
- Existing independent brokers maximise their performance
- Insurance professionals navigate the complexities of running a business
Moving from wholesale into a more broking-focused environment has expanded her knowledge in exciting ways. Her experience across Group operations allows her to spot opportunities, whether in MGAs, schemes or the London Market, and connect the right people to share insights and drive progress.
What motivates me now is seeing people realise what’s possible for them. Helping someone take that leap into ownership is incredibly rewarding.
Emma van Vliet, Network Development Manager at Jensten Network
Being a woman in insurance: Challenges, growth and empowerment
Emma is the first to acknowledge that being a woman in insurance hasn’t always been easy. As a BDM, she often felt the need to prove her expertise – sometimes responding to detailed product questions that felt more like “tests” than genuine queries. Rather than letting that discourage her, she turned it into a strength, committing herself to continuous learning.
Confidence didn’t always come naturally. As an introvert, the world of sales once felt daunting, but with the right support and a focus on emotional intelligence, Emma has grown into someone brokers and colleagues rely on and trust.
I’ve battled imposter syndrome. But supportive leaders, mentors and inspiring women helped me realise I belonged at the table.
Emma van Vliet, Network Development Manager at Jensten Network
Why International Women’s Day matters
International Women’s Day holds deep significance for Emma as progress doesn’t happen accidentally – it’s built through advocacy, representation and lifting others as we develop ourselves. Emma is passionate about creating equity and ensuring the next generation of women faces fewer barriers and more opportunities.
Believe in yourself. Surround yourself with people who lift you up. And say yes to opportunities – even the ones that scare you. Growth lives on the other side of discomfort.
Emma van Vliet, Network Development Manager at Jensten Network
Looking ahead
Emma’s future is intentionally open. She wants to continue learning, growing and influencing how Jensten supports brokers in building successful, sustainable businesses. Helping shape those journeys is what energises her most.
Join the growing community of women shaping the future of insurance
If Emma’s journey has sparked something in you, whether it’s curiosity, confidence or the desire to take the next step in your insurance career, we’re here to support you. Get in touch with Emma to explore how Jensten Network can help you launch or grow a brokerage of your own. Your future could start today.
