We are excited to announce that QBE Insurance has been awarded the prestigious Finance Team Engagement Innovator Award at the Future of Finance ANZ Innovators Awards 2024. This accolade highlights QBE’s remarkable achievements in fostering a culture of innovation, inclusivity, and engagement within the finance sector through its trailblazing Global Case Competition initiative.

In its inaugural year, the Future of Finance ANZ Innovators Awards are designed to recognise the most forward-thinking and impactful initiatives in the finance industry. These awards celebrate organisations that demonstrate excellence in creating positive change, driving innovation, and empowering their teams. From fostering diversity and inclusion to adopting cutting-edge technologies, the awards aim to inspire the finance community to break boundaries and embrace transformation.

The Finance Team Engagement Innovator Award, in particular, acknowledges organisations that excel in fostering employee engagement and inclusivity, with a focus on boosting team performance, satisfaction, and overall organisational success. QBE’s commitment to these goals has set it apart from the competition and secured this well-deserved recognition.

Driving Engagement Through Innovation

QBE’s Global Case Competition, in partnership with the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), exemplifies the power of collaboration and innovation. This initiative is not just a showcase of academic expertise; it is a strategic platform designed to attract top-tier talent and immerse students in real-world business challenges. Since its inception in 2022, this annual event has brought together approximately 100 high-achieving students from prestigious universities worldwide to tackle complex, purpose-led business cases that reflect the evolving challenges of the insurance industry.

The competition is more than just a 24-hour business challenge—it serves as a live innovation hub where creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork are pushed to their limits. Students, working in fast-paced teams, develop innovative solutions to real QBE business cases, which they pitch to a panel of senior leaders, including the QBE Group CEO and the AUSPAC CEO.

A True Partnership for Growth and Inclusion

One of the most unique aspects of the Global Case Competition is its focus on inclusivity and community. QBE’s collaboration with UTS and the Cerebral Palsy Alliance, which is also involved in judging the event, underscores the organisation’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and making a positive impact. The competition is a global effort, with participants from more than 10 countries and over 60% female representation, reflecting QBE’s dedication to diversity in talent acquisition and workforce development.

Moreover, QBE employees are deeply embedded in every phase of the competition. From designing the business case and mentoring the teams to playing pivotal roles in judging, the competition fosters a deep sense of ownership, engagement, and collaboration among employees. This inclusive, cross-functional involvement demonstrates QBE’s commitment to empowering its people and enhancing its workplace culture.

Innovation That Delivers Results

The Global Case Competition has proven to be a highly effective talent pipeline, with many past participants receiving internships or job offers at QBE. The competition has become a strategic tool for recruiting top talent from leading universities, and its success has enhanced QBE’s reputation as an attractive employer within the finance and insurance sectors. Additionally, the event has driven significant social media engagement, amplifying QBE’s brand presence and showcasing its commitment to innovation, diversity, and talent development.

Employees who participated in the competition consistently highlight the collaborative nature of the event and the fresh, outside-in perspectives it brings. The interaction with diverse student teams and exposure to innovative ideas have strengthened cross-functional collaboration and fostered a culture of continuous learning.

Looking Ahead: Expanding the Impact

Building on the success of the competition, QBE is already planning to expand its scope. The future vision includes engaging more universities, expanding the diversity of participants, and integrating cutting-edge technologies such as AI and data analytics to enhance the competition’s structure and insights. These initiatives will not only increase global participation but also drive deeper collaboration within QBE’s teams and elevate the event to new heights.

Additionally, plans are underway to introduce more employee development opportunities, such as workshops, training, and mentorship programs, to further engage participants and enhance QBE’s talent pipeline. By continuing to foster innovation and inclusivity, QBE is set to create even greater impact in the coming years.

Comments from the Future of Finance Innovator Awards Judges

"The Global Case Competition offers a unique approach to talent acquisition and innovation. By partnering with top universities and engaging high-calibre students in solving real-world business challenges, it has successfully strengthened its talent pipeline and fostered a culture of innovation."

"The competition stands out for its alignment with core values and its engagement with external partners on a purpose-based topic, creating a true innovation hub focused on real-world challenges."

"This initiative not only engages potential new employees but also provides an exciting and purposeful event for existing employees. It fosters innovation, community, and inclusivity, as evidenced through its collaboration with key organisations. The Global Case Competition is a shining example of how engagement with future talent can drive meaningful change."

A Note from Joshua Carless – General Manager: Strategic Finance

"I'm truly proud of our partnership with UTS on the global case competition. It’s sparked fresh ideas at QBE and energised our teams through real-world collaboration. This award highlights the power of coming together, and I’m excited for the innovation and impact we’ll continue to create."

Congratulations to QBE for this outstanding achievement!

Interested in showcasing your innovations in Employee Engagement? Be ready for #FoFAU 2025 and get your entries in!