The future of work: Why flexible and part-time roles are key to attracting top talent in insurance.

Recently, I posted an advert for a part-time, flexible role designed to meet candidates’ needs. The idea originated with a Chief Actuary client of mine, a working mother who knows firsthand the challenge of finding flexibility in her career.

The response to this role alone has been astounding, and proof that flexible working is not just desired but essential for many talented professionals. It also led to me writing this blog!

Let’s start with a few eye-opening stats:

Holiday disparity: The average employee receives 25-30 days of holiday per year, while children have approximately 60 days of school holidays annually (and more in private schools). Even if two parents stagger their leave, they’re still left short on time.

Flexible working requests: Only 1 in 4 flexible working requests are granted to men, compared to 4 in 10 for women. As a result, the majority of childcare responsibilities still fall heavily on women’s shoulders.

Maternity leave and redundancy: Every year, 54,000 women are made redundant while on maternity leave due to a lack of flexibility and, at times, outright discrimination. That does not include NDAs and settlements.

The insurance market is changing dramatically, and it's exciting to be part of this journey and see the transformation firsthand. But there’s still much more work to be done when it comes to part-time and flexible working.

In today's fast-paced world, the traditional 9-to-5 model is increasingly out of step with the realities of modern life. Flexibility is now essential, particularly in Insurance. As we compete in the war for talent, offering part-time and flexible work is no longer just a nice-to-have but a must-have. Here’s why:

1. Attracting top talent: The Insurance industry is highly competitive, and attracting skilled professionals is challenging. Flexible working options, such as remote work, flexible hours, or hybrid models, give companies a distinct edge. Many job seekers prioritise work-life balance, and flexibility can be the deciding factor that draws talent to your business.

2. Enhancing productivity: When employees can choose to work during their most productive hours, they perform better. Flexibility empowers employees to manage their schedules, and this autonomy often leads to higher quality work and greater engagement. Netflix co-founder Marc Randolph believed in treating employees like adults—a mindset that fosters trust, accountability, and productivity.

3. Retaining employees: Flexibility isn’t just about attracting talent; it’s also about keeping it. Employees who benefit from flexible working arrangements are likelier to stay with their employers, reducing turnover rates and building internal expertise.

4. Supporting well-being: Insurance can be a high-pressure industry. Flexible working helps employees balance their personal and professional lives, which is essential for maintaining mental health and resilience. With mental health increasingly recognised as a workplace priority, flexible arrangements can lead to a healthier, more satisfied workforce.

5. Embracing diverse needs: Flexibility respects the diverse needs of today’s workforce, from parents needing adjusted hours to individuals pursuing further education or hobbies. Accommodating these needs promotes inclusivity and demonstrates respect.

In conclusion, embracing flexible working isn’t just a trend; it's an evolution. By prioritising flexibility, companies can enhance their appeal, boost productivity, retain talent, support employee well-being, and celebrate diversity. The benefits are clear: it’s time to adapt to the changing landscape of work and seize the opportunities flexible arrangements offer.

Today, I work with several clients who offer flexible hours, part-time roles, term-time contracts, and other arrangements that fit around employees' lives.

If you’re interested in learning more about these roles or in hiring and creating an environment that attracts top talent, please reach out.

Written by William Gillimore.