Learning to stay true to herself, as well thriving in the support of her employer, has allowed QBE’s Lisa Odgers to succeed well beyond her initial career expectations
“I started with QBE when I was 19 as a mail girl,” says QBE Portfolio Manager Lisa Odgers. “Once I left school, I completed a typing and office course, and QBE approached the TAFE to source their junior employees.”
18 years on and Odgers has enjoyed many highlights throughout her career, moving through junior, operational, and leadership roles through to her current job. Based in Newcastle, Odgers works in the Workers Compensation business overseeing a team of over 50 employees. It’s a rewarding role that draws upon both her interpersonal and leadership skills.
“At the time, moving into the role of branch manager was a very quick change. There was a lot happening so it was challenging for me, but I learnt so many valuable lessons,” says Odgers.
Possessing great oversight and perspective, learning to relate to a variety of people, and having a passion for developing valuable relationships are just some of the requirements and fulfilling aspects of her job. But it can be a juggling act.
“[The role] is a balance between having faith in your leadership team, letting them own what they need to take ownership of, and learning to trust their own people as well. You also need to invest valuable time in building a personal relationship with everyone in the office, and learn not to micro-manage.”
QBE’s ability and willingness to seek out and foster talent has gained Odgers’ respect. Thanks to the early years of recognition and support, her career progress has surpassed her expectations.
Now in a senior position, Odgers believes it’s essential to pass on this encouragement to the next generation.
“I never thought my career would get this far, but it has because people have sought me out to reach my potential.”
And it’s those priorities that make for such a supportive, genuine work culture.
“I value that I can be myself, be authentic and that [these traits] are encouraged, which is quite rare. There’s a real purpose. People go out of their way to go find potential rather than just come across it.”
A healthy approach to balancing life at work and home has become a priority for Odgers, who loves spending quality time with family, friends, exercising, going to the beach and leaving her “work at work”.
“I have not always been good at this. I’ve learnt that in order to bring the best person to work every day, you need to bring a healthy one. I really value my health and have to maintain a level of balance. I stay fit. I value time alone and you need to do that to bring your best self to each day.”
Odgers feels it’s important to go with your intuition if you’re struggling to combat challenging choices in your job.
“I’ve always valued advice about authenticity… go with your gut on most occasions. I use this often when I need to make overwhelming decisions. Otherwise you just sit there and procrastinate.”
Simply try your best to be brilliant at the job you’re in and you will shine, advises Odgers.
She says to never be afraid to bring your authentic self to work, and find people that make you feel good about yourself, and pass that authenticity on.
“We’ve all got a responsibility to each other as we progress through our careers. We need to make the next generation feel great about themselves.”
Written by: Thea Christie