Rising Star: Allison Parry

Allison Parry earned a degree in Neuroscience from Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and started out in the medical field before transitioning to insurance as a technical assistant on the property broking team at Aon nearly five years ago.

Advancing through roles to her current position as senior broker, Parry now manages a diverse portfolio of commercial property risks, with a heavy focus on gaming and hospitality accounts, while also supporting clients in real estate, pharmaceuticals and manufacturing.

Can you start by telling us what inspired your career?

Like many people in the industry, I never planned on a career in insurance – in fact, I found my way into the industry after leaving the science and medical field. At the time, I did not know the difference between insurance and reinsurance, but I’ve always been drawn to new challenges. Diving into this unfamiliar territory was both exciting and a bit daunting, but I was eager to learn and committed to making the most of the opportunity.

What elements of your career do you enjoy most and why?

What I enjoy most about my career is the constant opportunity to connect with others and learn from their experiences and knowledge. I’m fortunate to work alongside some wonderful brokers and underwriters, meaning I’m always exposed to new perspectives and insights and I rarely go a day without learning something new.

Furthermore, with the landscape of risk continuously evolving, we are forced to question the things we know to be true – much like in scientific fields, where critical thinking and rigorous analysis are essential. I enjoy this aspect of the work, as my background in science has instilled in me a habit of challenging assumptions and seeking evidence, which I now apply to navigating complex risks in insurance.

Can you share an example of a challenge you overcame that significantly shaped your career trajectory?

Until 5 years ago, I had tunnel vision for a career in medicine, but after completing my exams and a gap year working in a GP’s office, I found myself deeply affected by the emotional weight of patient care. I realised that, while I was passionate about helping others, the day-to-day emotional toll of being so closely involved in patients’ lives was more than I could handle in the long term. This was a difficult realisation, as it meant letting go of a path I’d invested so much in, both academically and personally.

I found my way into the insurance industry, where I discovered the analytical skills and scientific approach I’d developed through my neuroscience studies were highly transferable. My background equipped me to learn complex concepts quickly, analyse data and approach problems methodically – skills that are essential in assessing risk and developing solutions for clients. This experience taught me the importance of self-awareness and adaptability and reinforced my belief that career paths are rarely linear. Being open to change allowed me to leverage my strengths in new ways and find a fulfilling direction I hadn’t previously considered.

What are your career ambitions? And how will you work to achieve them?

At this stage in my career, my primary ambition is to continue growing – both professionally and personally – by seeking out opportunities to learn and to help others develop as well. I’ve found that my most rewarding experiences come from tackling new challenges, expanding my knowledge and sharing what I learn with colleagues and clients.

Rather than aiming for a specific title or role, I’m motivated by the idea of making a positive impact wherever I am. In the insurance industry, that means staying curious about emerging trends, deepening my expertise and supporting others – whether that’s by mentoring new team members, collaborating on projects or researching topics I don’t fully understand.

How do you stay motivated and continue to learn in such a dynamic sector?

My motivation comes from a genuine curiosity and a constant desire to keep learning and improving my skills. The ever-changing nature of the property insurance industry means there’s always something new to explore, which really energises me. I actively seek out new information, ask questions and enjoy diving into unfamiliar topics. This drive to understand and grow is what keeps me engaged and excited about my work every day.

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