Meet Ambra Debernardi

In celebration of International Women’s Day, we’re sharing stories that Inspire Inclusion from women at AIA.

Meet Ambra Debernardi

Director of Multinational Business and Broker Development in AIA Group Corporate Solutions

Tell us about yourself.

I am Italian, born in the year of the Dragon, and I graduated from the UK, University of Sheffield. I hold an MBA from the University of Liverpool and a Masters in Chinese Studies from SOAS, University of London. I am currently based in Hong Kong with my husband and three children. I specialise in the structuring and delivery of products and solutions pertaining to employee benefits for MNC clients across Asia Pacific. I am also responsible for the International Brokers business across APAC. I love studying foreign languages, travelling, and playing sports. Nowadays, I particularly enjoy swimming, hiking, and tennis.?

What initially drew you to your current field??

I specialised in Chinese Studies and started my career with Assicurazioni Generali when they were setting up operations in China. I gained most of my experience in Asia and Hong Kong and specialised in corporate solutions from 2007. I particularly enjoy working in the employee benefits sector as it allows me to contribute directly to the wellbeing of the employees of my corporate clients. I joined AIA in 2016 to support the vision of helping people live Healthier, Longer, Better Lives.

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What do you enjoy about your work?

I oversee a team from various cultural and professional backgrounds, nationalities, ages and genders, and we all interact with colleagues across multiple geographies. I have the honour of contributing to the development of AIA's future leaders, amongst which brilliant female talents who are curious learners and vibrant entrepreneurs.?

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What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced in your career and how did you overcome them?

Working in Guangzhou for the first time in 2005 on a management trainee assignment meant leaving behind family and friends and facing some initial lonely times. I was the only foreigner and had to learn on the job mastering new concepts within the operations, actuarial and underwriting, agency channel departments and everything was in Chinese.

Another challenge for me has been keeping a work-life balance especially when I had my first child and I was learning to be a mother whilst focusing on my professional development and career progression. The feeling of inadequacy can be daunting focusing on one's shortcomings rather than strengths. On both occasions, rising to the challenge involved perseverance, hard work and commitment to my life and professional goals. Stepping out of your comfort zone is critical for growth. But also, the importance of collaboration and having a trusted support network both at home and at work.?

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Any milestones or achievements, big or small, you're particularly proud of??

A big achievement for me was developing the employee benefits network of AIA. It is now a sizable portfolio with double-digit growth year on year thanks to the comprehensive suite of products and services that help corporations increase cost efficiency and refocus on investing resources in the health and wellbeing of their employees. ?I built a team that has strengthened AIA's position as a leading player in Asia. There are still many opportunities ahead, but leading a high-performing team has been very rewarding.

Also, as part of my community engagement, I am a Member of various women's associations whose charitable initiatives are focused on supporting and inspiring women of all backgrounds. I have also been a Board member of the English School Foundation since 2021; this broadened my horizons and allowed me to take an active role in my children's education.?

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What does being a leader mean to you? Or what are the qualities of a leader??

The complexity of leadership is difficult to summarise in a few words, but I would say that it is about unleashing the potential in yourself and others to drive performance whilst inspiring them to achieve greater purpose and commitment. Personally, I believe that emotional intelligence (EI) in leaders is often overlooked: EI helps with self-awareness, empathy, and the ability to foster relationships and build trust. The insurance industry is a people industry, and we all want to feel valued and stay motivated and engaged.

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Is there anyone who's played a key part in your professional journey or influences you as a leader?

My mother is the person who had the most influence on my professional journey. She is a neurologist who reached a top management position in a highly male-dominated field. She is very demanding of herself (and others), but her work ethic, commitment to quality output, and self-development are all characteristics that I admire and have tried to make mine. She has always been ahead of the times and initiated ?the idea of me specialising in Chinese studies and Mandarin at a time when it was not a common course.

Have you benefited from mentorship in your career?

Mentorship is a powerful tool for investing in yourself and others. One of the key benefits is access to knowledge and experience for valuable insights, advice, and guidance.

I have been working closely with 100 Women in Finance and have met so many young women who are curious, articulate and determined. Sharing personal experiences helps them make informed decisions and fosters supportive and positive relationships. It is an opportunity to celebrate successes together.?

Is there a message would you like to share with other women on International Women's Day?

Pursue your dreams. Don't be afraid to take risks but surround yourself with people who care about you. Don't shy away from seeking what you are worth. Never forget to celebrate success, however big or small.

A successful career is not a linear path. The highs and lows can include missed promotions, a boss who does not value you, or a poor decision, but a lot can be learnt from setbacks. My advice is to keep moving forward, never lose sight of the bigger picture, focus on what you can control and improve your self-awareness.?