How this $3.5 billion global insurance-brokerage firm is building its India team

A global insurance powerhouse with a $3.5 billion business entered the Indian market in January 2024 with the appointment of Dr. Sandeep Dadia as their CEO and country head. That’s Lockton, and they aren’t just entering the market—they’re building a dream team. Their vision? A team that’s as vibrant and diverse as India itself, driven by excellence, ethical practices, and a desire to give back

Lockton, a global insurance brokerage with a $3.5 billion business worldwide entered the Indian market with the appointment of Dr. Sandeep Dadia as their CEO and Country Head. The organization is now looking at building a dream team. Its vision is to create a workforce that is as vibrant and diverse as India itself, driven by excellence, ethical practices, and a desire to give back.

“We’re scaling up fast,” says Victoria Edwards, regional HR Head, Asia, Lockton, in an exclusive interview with HRKatha. “Over 150 employees in a year – that’s the goal!” But Lockton isn’t after just warm bodies. They want passionate individuals who share their core values. People who crave excellence, act with integrity, and believe in making a difference.

Diversity is the name of the game. In a competitive market like India’s insurance sector, Lockton knows a multitude of perspectives breeds success. Their “You Belong Here” campaign is a beacon, attracting top talent and encouraging them to bring their authentic selves to the table.

“Forget hierarchy, embrace agility. Our flat structure gives everyone a chance to shine and experiment. We want our employees to see their work as a passion, not just a job.”

Victoria Edwards, regional HR Head, Asia, Lockton

It’s not just about recruitment though. Lockton gets you plugged into their global network. New hires are welcomed with open arms, gaining access to a support system of 20-30 mentors ready to guide them towards achieving their full potential. It’s a family atmosphere, with colleagues offering unwavering support through phone calls, networking events, and a genuine desire to see each other succeed.

But building a global team has its hurdles. Merging individuals from different backgrounds, each with their own work styles, requires a delicate touch. Lockton tackles this by fostering continuous learning and growth. Design thinking is embedded in their DNA, encouraging collaborative problem-solving and breaking down silos.

“Forget hierarchy, embrace agility,” says Edwards. “Our flat structure gives everyone a chance to shine and experiment. We want our employees to see their work as a passion, not just a job.” Lockton’s entrepreneurial spirit is infectious, empowering their Indian team to excel within a structure that values ethical behaviour and keeps client satisfaction at the forefront.

Leadership plays a key role in nurturing this culture. Edwards emphasises their focus on hiring driven individuals and giving them the autonomy to innovate and lead. But it’s not all work and no play. Employee well-being is a priority. Lockton offers access to global Employee Assistance Programmes and is exploring flexible work arrangements to promote mental well-being. “We personalise our approach,” explains Edwards.

“Managers tailor support based on individual needs, recognising effort through simple gestures like thank-you notes or early leave.”

Lockton views every hire as a potential leader. They invest heavily in employee development, offering training programmes that encompass both technical expertise – think cyber, marine, and transactional risks – and management skills, ensuring a smooth transition into leadership roles. Mentoring and coaching are cornerstones, providing a safe space for growth and experimentation.

Strategic workforce planning is another weapon in their arsenal. Lockton meticulously maps the Indian insurance landscape to identify and attract the best talent. “We’re building ‘T-shaped’ individuals,” explains Edwards. “Experts in their field, but also team players who can collaborate across borders.” They design career paths with cross-team and cross-regional projects to cultivate well-rounded professionals.

Tracking engagement and gauging the impact of their initiatives is crucial. Lockton uses surveys to measure changes in behaviour and the effectiveness of their programs. Looking ahead, they plan to introduce talent programmes specifically designed to attract and nurture graduates, ensuring a steady pipeline of future leaders.

“On-the-job learning is key in our industry,” concludes Edwards. “Our experienced hires play a vital role in passing on their knowledge to the next generation. By attracting the best talent, we ensure our young professionals learn from the best, shaping them into future experts in the Indian insurance brokerage landscape.”

Lockton’s India story is a tale of ambition, diversity, and a commitment to excellence. By building a dream team that reflects the vibrancy of India, they’re not just entering the market – they’re poised to redefine the future of insurance broking in the subcontinent.