As an employee network with a mission to encourage, engage, and inspire women across the US organization, Power of Women honors National Women’s History Month by recognizing women who have made a strong presence here at Intact and are known to be both a valued colleague and role model by many. Over the past month, we have enjoyed learning more about these individuals and their career experience as a professional woman in the workplace. Today, wrapping up our Intact Icon features for National Women’s History Month is Jennifer Morales!
Jennifer has 23 years of experience in the insurance industry. Jennifer joined Intact Insurance Surety Group in August 2022 as an Underwriting Consultant for the Transactional Commercial Surety Group. Her focus is developing marketing plans and strategies that lead to the promotion of our online surety platform and managing the Southeast Commercial Surety Transactional Portfolio. Jennifer lives in Saint Cloud, FL with her husband, two kids, and fur-baby mini-Aussie. Jennifer is a networking-enthusiast who has never met a stranger, and an avid student of life – eager to always learn.
How did you get started in the industry?
My friend who worked for an insurance company piqued my interest when she shared that her company was going to pilot a four-day work week back in 2000! I was hired a few weeks later as a customer service representative for auto insurance. My career journey has been amazing due to a diverse slate of positions; customer service, underwriting, claims, subrogation, sales, and marketing, from the company and broker side as well as product services & coverages that have all culminated in tools that I apply in my current role.
Is there something you wish someone would have told you as you started your career?
Yes, there are so many, but to start I would say:
- Find a mentor and join an employee resource group where you can benefit from peer mentorship.
- The power of pause – helps us navigate through various circumstances without losing our impact.
- Go after BIG dreams!
- Inspiring others and transforming your organization begins with believing in yourself.
What challenges have you had to face in your career? How did you overcome?
I started in this industry as a young woman and age was always perceived as inexperience. I had the privilege of wonderful mentors who encouraged the creativity of a new insurance underwriter. I was able to build credibility and establish my brand as a knowledgeable insurance/surety bond professional by working with allies, sponsors, and mentors within my work groups.
What women leaders inspire you?
Again, there are so many to name, but I selected three women whose stories helped me find my own voice and impacted my perspectives on reframing “obstacles”. Hellen Keller was the first deaf and blind person to earn a college degree which proved that the only obstacle in achieving one’s dream is yourself. Malala Yousafzai for her courage in advocating for girls to have an education in Pakistan while defying the Taliban. My mother for her perseverance and positive outlook – her advice has always been do not allow other to limit your potential and most of all Dream BIG!
Thank you, Jennifer, for sharing more about yourself and your career experience! Power of Women appreciates your support and participation in celebrating National Women’s History Month.
