Leadership challenges in Asia-Pacific insurance often extend beyond technical capability, shaped instead by expectations, perceptions, and organisational structures. Across the region, a growing number of female leaders are navigating these realities while influencing how insurers respond to evolving market dynamics and strategic pressures.

Reflecting this shift, Insurance Business has unveiled its Elite Women 2026 list, recognising professionals whose impact spans decision-making, operational leadership, and industry progress. Many honourees hold agenda-setting roles across underwriting, distribution, and corporate functions, highlighting the expanding influence of women shaping the direction of insurance across Asia-Pacific.

In markets defined by complexity and diversity, their leadership demonstrates how vision and execution translate into sustained organisational impact and broader sector advancement.

Elite Women 2026 honourees featured include:

Milia Xystros of Crawford & Company (Australia)
Lisa Mitchell of Markel Australia
Kathleen Warden of AIG Australia
Colleen MacCarthy of Grappler.io
Sze Keed Wong of AIA Singapore
Chunyen Liu of AIA Singapore
Michelle Le Long of PD Insurance
Shelley Reynolds of Gallagher Bassett
Eliza White of domo Insurance
Kate Middleton of ARC Projects
Mary-Ann Van Rensburg of NTI

Together, they reflect a leadership evolution shaped by influence, structural awareness, and the ability to guide organisations through shifting expectations across Asia-Pacific.

As part of the editorial process, Insurance Business researchers consulted industry experts to provide an independent perspective on the report’s findings. One of the experts, Stephanie Connolly, General Manager – Victoria at Gallagher Bassett, highlighted the ongoing challenge of advancing women in leadership: “There is still work to be done in APAC to strengthen women’s influence and decision-making power, particularly at the executive and board levels.”

The full Elite Women 2026 report offers a closer look at the leaders whose work continues to shape industry progress — providing insight into the expertise, influence, and impact driving change across the sector.