2021 Women to Watch Awards Americas EMEA
Claire Sales Executive director
Aon PLC
London
A passion for learning, legal expertise and a temp job at Canada Life Assurance Co. were a prelude to Claire Sales’ ultimately leading Aon PLC’s U.K. retail insurance company practice.
“I had always wanted to be a solicitor but decided during my degree that it wasn’t for me. After university, my mother allowed me two weeks’ grace before suggesting I find a job, which I did at local employer Canada Life before moving to Munich Re as an underwriter,” she said.
A sense of “unfinished business,” however, led a few years later to her joining a law firm to qualify as a lawyer.
“I then moved to Debevoise & Plimpton, spending six months in New York after qualifying as a U.S. attorney, which was a lot of fun,” Ms. Sales said.
Returning to the United Kingdom, she joined Marsh, American International Group Inc. and, ultimately, Aon in 2015. She continues with her education and is in an Aon-sponsored master’s program in business and strategic leadership.
Helping others learn is also important, she said.
“I want to be a good role model and help other women and upcoming talent achieve. I have some amazing mentors — it is so empowering to see others succeed and to help each other rather than pushing down on people to get ahead,” Ms. Sales said.
Added to an already busy life, she is a mother of three and whenever they get the chance they take to the hills, hiking and enjoying nature.
Michelle Mason, managing director-global and specialty, commercial risk solutions, at Aon, said Ms. Sales stands out as a female leader who constantly challenges herself and what she can deliver.
“At her core is a focus on excellence and a constant energy and passion to deliver for clients and colleagues. Claire has a natural curiosity and drive, which has led her to challenge herself around how she contributes and what she can achieve both inside and outside of Aon,” Ms. Mason said.
