Sponsor Spotlight Interview: Harry Benham, QBE UK Limited
As proud sponsors of the ERG Blueprint Conference 2026, QBE continue to demonstrate what meaningful, employee-led inclusion looks like in practice. We spoke with Harry Benham about QBE’s evolving approach to DEI, the strategic role of employee networks, and why ERGs are critical to business success.
The Story Behind QBE’s Approach to DEI
At QBE, we recognise the value that diverse thought and lived experience bring to better decision making. In recent years, we’ve prioritised evolving our employee networks from community-led spaces into strategic partners that actively inform business decisions.
A key element of that shift has been cultivating clear communication and structured action plans aligned to our wider strategic objectives. That alignment provides our networks with purpose and ensures a collaborative approach to driving meaningful change for all our people.
For me personally, championing this work is about creating spaces where colleagues feel heard and empowered. When you see ideas from networks directly influencing business priorities, you realise the tangible impact inclusion can have, not just culturally, but commercially.
Impact & Growth
Since aligning our networks more closely with our wider business strategy, we’ve seen a notable improvement in retention and attraction within our employee networks.
Our members are passionate and full of innovative ideas. But without direction, those ideas can sometimes feel lost. By providing clarity around where the business is heading, and the role networks can play in supporting that direction, we’ve unlocked real momentum.
What surprised me most was the level of autonomy our networks developed once we provided strong foundations. When you equip networks with structure, resources and trust, they thrive independently while still contributing to broader business outcomes.
A powerful example of this was our gender network, Circle, winning ERG of the Year at the Diversity and Inclusion in Insurance Awards. It was a clear demonstration of what’s possible when employee networks are empowered as strategic partners.
The Future of DEI at QBE
A shared challenge across organisations is how to engage all colleagues in conversations about inclusion. Too often, the broader DE&I narrative can unintentionally alienate those who don’t identify with marginalised groups.
At QBE, we’ve focused on reshaping how we talk about inclusion so that everyone feels part of the conversation. Our networks are integral to this, offering first-hand insights, prioritising intersectional collaboration, and redefining inclusion by showcasing how it drives high-performing teams and better business outcomes.
Over the next 1–2 years, I see ERGs continuing to evolve as trusted strategic partners. Their ability to provide grounded, real-time feedback and drive cultural dialogue will be critical in navigating the changing landscape.
The Bigger Picture
Without resource groups, employees often lack a platform to share their voices, particularly in large organisations where ideas can become diluted as they move through layers of seniority.
By creating spaces that connect directly with senior leadership and the board, we ensure that decision-makers understand the lived experience of colleagues on the ground. That connection allows us to celebrate progress, whether that’s improvements in accessibility, flexibility or mobility, while also identifying where more work is needed.
Everyone experiences the workplace differently. ERGs ensure those experiences are heard, valued and translated into meaningful action.
We’re delighted to welcome QBE as a sponsor of ERG Blueprint 2026 and to spotlight the leadership driving their inclusion journey.
Join Us at the ERG Blueprint Conference 2026
Join us at ERG Blueprint Conference 2026 to learn the systems and strategies that turn passion into lasting power.
April 28th | Leonard Royal London Hotel, St. Paul’s | London