This blog was created based on content delivered by Saiyaf Alli and Bessie Aquino from Zurich Canada, during their June 27, 2024 webinar on employment opportunities for refugees and diversity, equity, and inclusion policies.

The webinar is part of Jumpstart’s initiative to support refugees in their career journeys and to provide an insightful look into the company’s efforts. 

Embracing Diversity and Building Futures: Zurich Canada’s Innovative Initiatives 

Zurich Insurance Group is a global life insurance company with offices worldwide and over 55,000 employees. Here in Canada, Zurich Canada recently celebrated their centennial and has an expansive presence throughout the country with offices in Vancouver, Edmonton, Calgary, Toronto, and Montreal. The insurance sector offers tremendous job potential and employs more than 280,000 staff, including 62% females and 20% newcomers, and has an average annual salary of $70,000. 

Zurich Canada has been a longstanding partner of Jumpstart’s and are a remarkable example of how to set new standards in corporate inclusivity and talent development. Working with Jumpstart, Zurich Canada has been actively expanding its talent pool to include refugees, enriching their workforce with unique perspectives and experiences. This strategic partnership reflects Zurich’s proactive stance in nurturing talent from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that their workforce mirrors the multicultural fabric of Canada. 

A More Inclusive Approach to Hiring Practices 

As Saiyaf Alli, AVP, Talent Acquisition with Zurich Canada, explained during their June 27th Career Pathing webinar with Jumpstart, that there has been a pivotal shift in hiring practices away from traditional biases and towards a more inclusive approach. This commitment is not just rhetoric but a guiding principle that permeates every level of the organization, encouraging diversity as a cornerstone of their corporate identity: 

“We are very open to new Canadians and recognizing Canadian out-of-country experience. I think that’s where the sticking point is with many hiring managers in different companies –they say that they’re looking for just Canadian experience. And that’s not the mindset that we want to have. And that comes from our CEO. He has explicitly communicated to the organization, to his leaders throughout the organization that we are open to new immigrants, forcibly displaced persons, and anyone, anyone that’s bringing a diverse background and an experience from overseas or wherever they may come from.” 

Zurich Canada’s Pioneering Apprenticeship Program  

Central to Zurich’s commitment to talent development and retention is their pioneering apprenticeship program, tailored to mirror a successful model from the United States. This white-collar apprenticeship initiative offers participants dual learning experience: working alongside industry professionals at Zurich’s offices while pursuing a Business Insurance Diploma at Seneca Polytechnic. What sets this program apart is Zurich’s comprehensive support, covering all tuition fees and providing participants with a salary, making it an attractive opportunity for career changers and newcomers seeking to enter the insurance industry. 

“We are actually covering the tuition of those who are in the program,” explains Saiyaf, highlighting the program’s affordability and accessibility. “Participants not only gain valuable hands-on experience but also graduate with a diploma that positions them for long-term success in the insurance sector.” 

 

Levelling the Playing Field to Seek out Talent

Success in Zurich’s apprenticeship program represents a transformative opportunity for individuals who may not have had the financial means to pursue higher education otherwise. This program aims to level the playing field by actively seeking out talented individuals from diverse and underserved communities, not only in the US but also extending its success to Canada and beyond. 

Hiring Approach Prioritizes Skills and Potential 

The hiring approach at Zurich Canada prioritizes skills and potential over traditional industry-specific experience. Candidates undergo a rigorous evaluation process assessing their abilities and alignment with Zurich’s roles, ensuring a comprehensive fit that goes beyond conventional industry norms. 

Zurich Canada fosters a robust onboarding process tailored to each role, complemented by mentorship and buddy systems that provide continuous support and development opportunities. This approach not only integrates new hires smoothly but also encourages long-term engagement and growth within the company. 

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) 

Underpinning Zurich’s commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) is a structured framework within its HR practices, including initiatives like employee resource groups (ERGs) and partnerships with various not-for-profits. These efforts create an inclusive workplace where every individual, including refugees and forcibly displaced persons, feels valued and supported. 

From underwriting associates to specialized trainee programs in claims and underwriting, Zurich offers accessible entry points into the insurance industry. These roles accommodate diverse skill sets, providing a pathway for career progression within the organization.  

“We have had quite successful progression within our claims trainee program and underwriter Trainee program, where once they graduate, they end up in a claims type role and continue to move up,” says Bessie Aquino, Senior Talent Acquisition Advisor, Zurich Canada. 

 

Focus on Internal Mobility 

Zurich Canada’s focus on internal mobility ensures that talent is nurtured and opportunities for advancement are prioritized, enhancing employee satisfaction and bolstering Zurich’s ability to retain and develop diverse talent across all levels of the organization. 

For newcomers to Canada, Zurich provides practical guidance, emphasizing the importance of preparing a robust resume, leveraging professional networks like LinkedIn, and exploring job opportunities through platforms such as Indeed. The company encourages proactive networking and underscores the value of transferable skills gained from international experiences. 

“Keep using your LinkedIn account. Keep your network active, and once you establish yourself, get connected with some of the professionals who have roles you’d be interested in,” says Bessie. “Target certain companies, maybe just connect with some of those folks that are working there. Have conversations, and don’t forget to look at professional associations, too.” 

In conclusion, through their innovative initiatives, Zurich Canada embraces diversity and fosters career opportunities for a wide range of individuals. At the heart of these efforts lies a strong commitment from Zurich’s leadership, cascading throughout the organization to create a culture that values and welcomes immigrants, forcibly displaced persons, and individuals with diverse backgrounds. The company’s initiatives not only redefine a values-based approach to hiring diverse talent, but also set a benchmark for fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where talent thrives, and futures are built.  

For more information on upcoming events, including more career pathing events, please visit Events & Workshops.