Meet Marie-Louise: A Heart for People, A Mind for Strategy
From Marketing to Insurance: A Career That Choses You
Marie-Louise didn’t plan to work in insurance — but the industry had other ideas. After earning a marketing degree and gaining work experience at her father’s medical practice, a call (and subtle nudge) from a close friend led her to her first role at a national insurance brokerage. “You don’t choose insurance, insurance chooses you,” she has come to believe— and nearly two decades later, that one step has blossomed into a remarkable career.
That same friend has walked a long road with Marie-Louise, working alongside her at a few brokerages and remains a key figure in her journey — a testament to the power of determination and mutual support. “Her success continues to inspire me,” Marie-Louise reflects.
Climbing the Ladder with Purpose and People at Heart
Marie-Louise’s career is marked by steady growth, strategic leadership, and meaningful relationships. Her early roles in underwriting eventually led her into management. In her late 20s, she became the youngest manager in her division, a role that would lay the foundation for a long journey of people-focused leadership.
She’s navigated high-pressure seasons, including helping implement a new CRM system during COVID, overseeing multiple divisions, and managing complex teams. One of her proudest moments came when earning the Top Student award in KZN, for her UNISA Associateship case study. Through every chapter, she’s led with empathy, excellence, and an unwavering sense of responsibility.
Back to the Heart of It: Broking at TIB
After years in operational roles, Marie-Louise made the move into broking in 2023 — a shift that’s reconnected her with what she loves most: people. “It’s taken me out of my routine — but it’s grown me,” she reflects. “No two days are the same, and I get to build real, trusted relationships.”
Today at TIB, her role looks vastly different from the structured systems work of earlier years — but her values remain the same. Connection. Care. Communication.
A Deeply Rooted Work Ethic
Marie-Louise’s values are shaped by her upbringing in a home defined by compassion and service. Her father, a respected surgeon, and her mother, a woman known for her generosity, instilled a deep sense of integrity and empathy. “Care isn’t an act — it’s a way of life,” she says. That same ethos guides her approach to both colleagues and clients.
She is a self-confessed perfectionist when it comes to communication and quality — ensuring nothing is left unclear and no one is left behind. “What you see is what you get,” she says. “I am the same person at work and in life. I care about doing things well, and I care deeply about people.”
A Fresh Perspective on Women in Insurance
Contrary to what it appears, Marie-Louise doesn’t view this as a male-dominated industry. “So many of the driving forces I’ve worked with — in operations, innovation, and consulting — have been women,” she explains. “In fact, I’ve seen countless women rise, lead, and achieve extraordinary things.”
She believes it’s the unique ability to think both operationally and empathetically that sets women apart in the industry. “We bring both heart and perspective to the table — and that combination makes a real difference, especially when working closely with clients.”
Marie-Louise credits many of her female colleagues with shaping her professional path — not only those in leadership positions, but also those who lead through quiet strength, resilience, and day-to-day consistency. From navigating personal health challenges at home, to showing up for their teams with unwavering joy, these women have left a lasting and inspiring impact.
The TIB Experience
Since joining TIB this year, Marie-Louise has been struck by the level of authentic and energising leadership involvement. “It’s not hierarchical or disconnected. Everyone knows what’s going on, and the support is incredible,” she shares. “It’s exciting to be part of a business that’s growing — and growing with purpose.”
That sense of support and alignment is something she’s come to value deeply, shaped in part by the influence of Group CEO, Rowan, whose belief in her opened doors early in her career. His example of leading with both compassion and clarity continues to guide her. “When I face a tough decision, I often ask myself, ‘What would Rowan do?’” she reflects with a laugh. “That ability to lead with care — for people and performance — is something I try to emulate every day.”
A Women’s Day Reminder
As we celebrate Women’s Day this August, Marie-Louise reminds us that leadership doesn’t have to be loud. It can be steady. Quiet. Grounded. It looks like showing up, being real, and choosing to care!
Thank you for sharing with us, Marie-Louise.
