Prudence Chang | Executive Manager Business Development and Partner | National Credit Insurance (Brokers) Pty Ltd
Prudence Chang’s journey into the insurance industry was an unexpected yet rewarding one. Initially working as a real estate agent, she was conducting an appraisal for the then-manager of NCI Vic when she was invited to join the company. That moment marked the beginning of a fulfilling career that has now spanned 19 years. Reflecting on her time in the industry, she expresses immense satisfaction and gratitude for the opportunity to grow within the company and contribute meaningfully to the field. At EliteX, we are proud to have Prudence Chang as part of the edition: Impactful Women in Insurance 2025.
Her inspiration to pursue a career in insurance came from the industry’s role in helping both businesses and individuals. The ever-evolving nature of the market and the business landscape ensures that insurance remains a dynamic field, constantly pushing for innovation and fresh ideas. This aspect of the industry excites her and fuels her passion for her work. Among her many accomplishments, Prudence takes the greatest pride in mentoring her staff. She finds immense joy in watching her team members develop into successful salespeople and managers. Seeing their growth and achievements over the years has been one of the most rewarding aspects of her career.
“Watching her team members grow into successful salespeople and managers has been one of the most rewarding aspects of her career.”
When discussing the evolving role of women in insurance, Prudence remains optimistic. She believes that as more women step into executive roles, they pave the way for others to follow. While the best person should always be chosen for a position, the increasing presence of women in leadership serves as inspiration and encouragement for others to seize opportunities. For those aspiring to succeed in the insurance industry, Prudence emphasizes the importance of listening and empathy. Understanding and relating to a client’s challenges, even without experiencing them firsthand, is crucial in providing the best possible support and solutions.
Balancing personal and professional life is a challenge that she manages by setting clear boundaries. As a mother of two young children, she ensures that family time remains a priority, especially during dinner hours. She refrains from answering work calls or emails during this time, allowing her to be present for her children. Additionally, she prioritizes exercise as a non-negotiable aspect of her routine, recognizing its importance for stress relief and mental well-being. By establishing these boundaries and communicating them clearly, she ensures that only urgent matters interrupt her personal time.
For young women considering a career in insurance, Prudence strongly recommends finding a female mentor. This mentor does not necessarily have to be in the insurance field but should be someone they can turn to for guidance, support, and idea-sharing. Having a mentor can be instrumental in professional growth and development. Mentorship has played a significant role in her own career, as she has benefited from the guidance of two influential mentors in the insurance industry. These individuals, both successful in their own right, have broken barriers and provided her with invaluable advice. She acknowledges that even at her level, it remains essential to have trusted advisors to turn to when faced with challenges or new ideas. Her motivation stems from a daily practice of reflection. Each morning, before starting work, she takes time to review the day’s tasks and reminds herself of the purpose behind them. This routine of focusing on the “why” serves as a constant source of motivation and drive.
“By fostering collaboration, she has found greater success in managing change effectively.”
Looking ahead, Prudence envisions positive changes in the insurance industry, particularly in supporting women returning to the workforce after maternity leave. She hopes to see more companies implementing policies that accommodate school hours and part-time roles, making it easier for talented women to re-enter the industry earlier. One of the proudest moments in her career occurred about eight years ago when she hired a promising individual who demonstrated a strong work ethic and leadership potential. Through mentorship and guidance, this individual eventually secured the role of sales manager in Victoria. Watching her professional growth has been a highlight of Prudence’s career and reinforces the importance of investing in people’s development.
When faced with difficult situations or tough decisions at work, Prudence adopts a thoughtful approach. She understands that not every issue requires an immediate resolution and sometimes allowing situations to breathe leads to better outcomes. She also values diverse perspectives and actively involves multiple voices in decision-making processes. By fostering collaboration, she has found greater success in managing change effectively. To further support and empower women in insurance, Prudence believes companies should implement clear guidelines on work-life balance, including flexible work arrangements and support for families. Additionally, establishing well-defined career progression plans and conducting regular reviews can help women understand their growth potential within a company and ensure they receive the necessary support to advance in their careers.
Looking toward the future, Prudence is eager to focus on educating the market about Trade Credit Insurance and its benefits for businesses. She believes that many brokers are still unaware of this insurance type and, as a result, do not discuss it with their clients. Increasing awareness of this product will provide businesses with greater financial protection and contribute to overall economic stability. Beyond this, she remains committed to mentoring women in the industry, helping them navigate their careers and reach their goals. Prudence Chang’s journey in the insurance industry has been shaped by her dedication to mentorship, advocacy for women’s advancement, and passion for continuous learning. Through her leadership, she hopes to inspire more individuals to pursue opportunities, embrace change, and contribute meaningfully to the ever-evolving world of insurance.
“The ever-evolving nature of the market ensures that insurance remains a dynamic field, constantly pushing for innovation.”