By Business & Finance 
Laura Vickers is Managing Director of Commercial Lines at Gallagher Ireland. She leads a team delivering tailored solutions to businesses across multiple sectors, including financial services, legal, construction, manufacturing, and hospitality. Her expertise focuses on helping organisations identify, assess, and manage business risks. This includes operational disruption, workforce issues, and cyber challenges.
By Héloïse Chaudot
What was your first job?
Working in Dublin Airport as a sales assistant. After college, I moved into insurance, working as a claims handler for an insurance company. It was here that I learned the fundamentals of the industry.
It was a fantastic opportunity to understand the importance of building relationships, attention to detail, and the value of tailored solutions for clients.
What are your main priorities and goals in your current role?
To drive sustainable growth for Gallagher, to ensure we deliver exceptional service to our clients, and foster a collaborative and supportive environment for our team of commercial brokers.
I’m also focused on developing innovative insurance solutions that reflect the evolving risk landscape businesses are facing – from cyber threats to workforce and operational challenges – so that we remain a trusted, long-term partner for Irish businesses.
Our latest research shows that employee retention, cybercrime, and rising living costs are the top risks for Irish businesses today, and understanding these risks helps us guide clients more proactively.
What pushed you to pursue a career in this field?
I’ve always been drawn to roles that involve problem-solving and building relationships. Insurance is a dynamic and rewarding industry where you can make a tangible difference by helping businesses and individuals protect what matters most to them.
The opportunity to work with a diverse range of clients and industries has always been a motivating factor for me.
How do you motivate yourself and your team?
I make it a priority to celebrate successes, no matter how big or small, and to ensure that everyone feels valued for their contributions. I really believe in leading by example and fostering a culture of open communication, collaboration, and recognition.
Our Business Risk Index from 2025 highlighted that shifting employee attitudes, not just pay, are driving retention challenges. It’s a reminder that risk management isn’t only about insurance, but it’s about understanding people and operations – and that doesn’t just apply to our clients’ businesses but to our own organisation as well.
Personally, I stay motivated by focusing on the positive impact we have on our clients and the communities we serve.
In one sentence, how would you define success?
For me, success is achieving meaningful goals while staying true to my values and making a positive impact on those around me.
How do you relax?
I enjoy spending quality time with family and friends, reading, and getting outdoors for a walk or some exercise.
It’s important to take time to recharge and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
What is your favourite (non-business) book?
One of my favourite books is Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice. It’s a timeless story that reminds us of the importance of empathy, integrity, and standing up for what’s right.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
“Focus on what you can control, and don’t waste energy on what you can’t.”
This advice has been invaluable in helping me navigate challenges and stay focused on what truly matters.
How do you handle adversity?
Where possible, with a calm and solution-focused mindset. I believe in breaking challenges down into manageable steps, seeking input from my team, and maintaining a positive outlook.
Adversity often presents opportunities for growth and innovation, and I try to embrace that perspective.
What are the aspirations for the future of the business?
I want to play our role in tackling the big issues faced by our clients.
Ireland’s housing and cost-of-living pressures aren’t just headlines; they’re real factors affecting clients’ ability to retain talent, and it’s part of our job to offer practical solutions.
Also, cybercrime is now a top-three concern for many organisations. Our work is about helping clients anticipate risks and build resilience before issues occur.
My aspiration is for Gallagher to continue being a trusted partner for our clients, delivering innovative and tailored insurance solutions that meet their needs.
I want us to lead the way in the industry, not just in terms of growth, but also in how we support our clients, our people, and the communities we serve. By fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration, I’m confident we can achieve long-term success and make a meaningful impact.
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