iCAN Dublin Launch: Joseph Gallagher of Pelagos on Leadership and the Importance of Networks
On Wednesday 4 November, iCAN, the Insurance Cultural Awareness Network, launches in Dublin in partnership with Gallagher and AXA Ireland.
iCAN exists to create greater access, opportunity and career progression for diverse and underrepresented talent across insurance. Dublin joins our communities in London, Birmingham, Bristol, Ipswich, Manchester, Leeds and New York. It is our first locally led community in Ireland.
Joseph Gallagher is Chief Risk Officer in Ireland at Pelagos Insurance Capital and will be joining the panel at the iCAN Dublin launch.
Ahead of the event, we asked Joe about the Irish insurance market, leadership, professional networks and what he hopes iCAN Dublin can contribute.
Why does iCAN Dublin matter to the Irish insurance market?
“Dublin has a growing specialty insurance community, with people connecting through conferences, industry events and increasingly through informal market networks.
“I see a real opportunity for iCAN Dublin to build on that by bringing insurance professionals together in a relaxed environment where they can deepen their networks, exchange ideas and build meaningful connections across the market.”
What does good leadership look like?
“As my career has progressed, I have increasingly appreciated how important leaders are in setting the tone and culture of an organisation.
“Good leadership starts with treating people with respect and recognising that a diverse workforce brings different backgrounds, experiences and expectations. That requires leaders to be flexible in how they support people and create an environment in which everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
“I also think good leaders create an environment where people can learn from mistakes. When things go wrong, constructive challenge and honest feedback are much more valuable than a culture of blame.”
Where can the industry do more?
Joe believes there is an opportunity to strengthen the connection between education and the insurance industry.
“There is some awareness of insurance as a career in Irish schools and universities, and some universities offer dedicated insurance programmes, but there is an opportunity to strengthen the connection between education and the industry.
“There is an abundance of broader business and commerce courses, but relatively limited exposure to the breadth of careers available within insurance. As a result, the route from school or university into the industry is not always obvious, and many people only begin to understand the range of opportunities once they are already working in the sector.
“Better engagement with students and graduates could help broaden the pool of people who see insurance as an attractive career in the first place.”
Why do professional networks matter?
“Professional networks and relationships are enormously valuable in insurance. They give people opportunities to exchange ideas, learn from others and build relationships across the market.
“They can also give people exposure to different experiences and perspectives beyond their immediate organisations, helping them broaden their understanding of the industry as they develop their careers.”
What responsibility do senior leaders have?
“Senior leaders have a responsibility to help nurture the next generation of insurance professionals, whether through mentoring, sharing their experience or helping younger professionals develop their networks.
“I would perhaps frame it slightly differently from ‘opening doors’. Leaders should encourage people, help them develop and ensure that opportunities are fair and transparent. Ultimately, individuals also have to take ownership of their careers and make the most of those opportunities when they arise.”
What would make iCAN Dublin valuable?
“For me, iCAN Dublin will be genuinely valuable if it helps build stronger connections across the Irish insurance market. It can provide a platform for professionals to share their experience and knowledge, learn from one another and develop relationships beyond their immediate organisations.
“If it can combine that sense of community with opportunities for people to broaden their networks and develop their careers, I think it can make a meaningful contribution to the continued development of the Irish insurance market.”
What to expect on 4 November
The evening opens with a keynote, followed by a panel on career progression, overcoming barriers, confidence and visibility, leadership and belonging. It closes with drinks and canapés.
Joe will be joining the panel alongside professionals from across the Irish market.
iCAN Dublin Launch: Progression. Leadership. Opportunity.
Date: Wednesday 4 November 2026,
Time: doors 5:30pm, programme from 6:00pm
Location: AXA Ireland, Wolfe Tone House, Wolfe Tone Street, Dublin 1
In partnership with: Gallagher and AXA Ireland
Whether you’re new to insurance, established in your career or simply looking to build your network across the Irish market, we’d love to have you involved.
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.