An Insightful Coffee with the CEO Session Featuring Hugh Sturgess from Arch Insurance International
The Insurance Cultural Awareness Network (iCAN) recently hosted an engaging "Coffee with the CEO" session featuring Hugh Sturgess, CEO of Arch Insurance International.
This event provided a unique platform for members to connect with a senior industry leader and offered a wealth of practical advice on leadership, career growth, and personal development.
The Coffee with the CEO initiative continues to bring direct access to inspiring industry leaders for iCAN members, empowering them to drive their own career journeys with insights from the field’s top executives. We were thrilled to partner with Arch Insurance International in making this impactful session possible.
What is “Coffee with the CEO”?
The “Coffee with the CEO” series provides iCAN members with invaluable access to senior leaders across the insurance industry. Supported by iCAN’s sponsors, these sessions dive into career advice, personal experiences, industry insights, and more, helping attendees gain actionable steps to accelerate their growth.
Each session is a powerful opportunity to learn, connect, and be inspired by those who have navigated successful careers in the sector.
Key Takeaways from Hugh Sturgess
In Hugh’s session, attendees explored the following key themes:
1.The Importance of Listening
Hugh emphasised that active listening is essential for career progression and effective problem-solving. “Many senior roles can fail because people don’t listen enough,” he shared, highlighting that listening is crucial for understanding problems deeply and asking the right follow-up questions.
He noted that this skill transcends roles and levels, making it universally valuable.
2. Humility in Leadership
Hugh discussed how humility and openness to learning are essential, especially when dealing with imposter syndrome.
He encouraged attendees to seek advice only from those they genuinely respect, noting, “Don’t take criticism from people you wouldn’t take advice from.” According to Hugh, separating the roles of a mentor and a manager is key.
Good mentorship challenges thinking and offers guidance on career decisions.
3. Be Bold and Test Your Limits
Hugh shared his belief in pushing beyond comfort zones to enable personal and professional growth.
Drawing on his experiences moving between sectors, he advised, “You will get promoted when you’re ready, so act like you’re in the role for a few months before it happens.”
He also recommended a 2023 Harvard Business Review article on imposter syndrome, which offers further insights into addressing self-doubt in leadership roles.
The session with Hugh Sturgess was a valuable opportunity for iCAN members to gain insights from a leading industry voice and learn practical steps for navigating their own careers.
From the importance of listening and humility to the courage to step into new roles, Hugh’s advice resonated across all levels, inspiring attendees to take actionable steps in their career development.
A special thanks to Hugh and Arch Insurance International for a truly inspiring session. We look forward to continuing to bring members these opportunities and can’t wait to see how they apply these lessons in their own careers.
About iCAN
The Insurance Cultural Awareness Network (iCAN) is a leading organisation committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in the insurance sector. Established in 2017, iCAN has been instrumental in spotlighting cultural awareness, fostering talent, and championing diversity within the industry.