Pamela Derksen on Building Credibility

This International Women’s Day, we’re taking a closer look at two women shaping the broker channel — one stepping into association leadership, the other guiding the next generation of brokers. Their stories offer a candid look at what it means to build credibility, take risks and lead with purpose.

Q&A with Pamela Derksen | Incoming IBAO President

What formative experience influenced your approach to leadership?
I’ve always treated my work as if the business were my own, regardless of my role. That mindset comes from watching my parents who were farmers and entrepreneurs — they were up early every day, worked hard and took risks to build something of their own. Their example shaped how I think about ownership, responsibility and leadership.

How did you build confidence and credibility as you advanced in your career? 
Early on, I developed leadership skills through volunteering and community roles while still mastering the technical side of insurance. Credibility comes from building that technical foundation, having the confidence to ask questions and pushing for clear outcomes.

How has your leadership style evolved in recent years? 
Managing remote teams during COVID certainly reshaped my approach. We were seeing people’s lives in a way we hadn’t before — families, pets, the real challenges everyone was facing. Supporting employees and customers when many were worried about their livelihoods deepened my empathy and reinforced the importance of flexibility. Growing up in Quebec and later leading teams in Western Canada also taught me just how diverse this country is, and the value of respecting and embracing different perspectives, working styles and regional approaches.

Was there a realization that changed how you lead?
One of the biggest shifts for me was learning to lead people who had more technical expertise than I did.

I don’t have to be the smartest person in the room to be a good leader — that took me a while to learn.

How has your definition of success evolved over your career? 
Starting out, success was about personal achievement, proving to myself that I could deliver results. Over time, it shifted to team success. I strongly believe that leaders should work alongside their teams, supporting and empowering, not just delegating.

What responsibility will carry the greatest meaning for you as IBAO President?
I feel strongly about championing what’s right for consumers, looking at things from their perspective. Our industry can often feel confusing and overly complex — I want to ensure IBAO focuses on initiatives that have a meaningful impact on the customer experience.

What’s your vision for the future of the broker channel and the next generation of leaders?
Despite many changes in our industry, there will always be a role for those who can quickly identify challenges and offer solutions — that trusted advisor role remains essential. My hope is that we continue to attract talented individuals who find purpose and fulfillment in this rewarding field.

Read our Q&A with Giovanna Costa Fazari | YBC President here.