Manal Jarrar – National Insurance Company General Manager

Manal Jarrar probably knows the insurance sector like the back of her hand. She has been in the business since 1990, working with four different insurance companies.

She has been with the National Insurance Company since 2012, devising insurance policies and developing the company’s resources. Jarrar says what she likes best about her job is that it’s far from boring.

What does it mean to be a female entrepreneur?

It means I am never worried if people treat me differently in business because of my gender and have stopped comparing myself to others, including men. “The bottom line is, if you are successful, no one cares whether you are a man or a woman.”

What was the most valuable lesson you learned throughout your journey?

If you don’t believe in yourself, nobody will. If you act on that belief people will treat you based on what you think about yourself.

Why did you choose this business in particular?

It is not routine, in that there is always something new around every corner and so needs attentive and creative responses which lead to more knowledge and experience.

Do you think you have managed to leave a mark?

I think yes, and one indicator of that is I was included on a list of the hundred most powerful Arab women in the MENA region by Forbes Magazine, on which my rank is 62. In Jordan I ranked number 5, which I was extremely pleased about.

What makes a good leader?

A good leader possesses a clear vision, is courageous. They have integrity, humility, and focus. They are strategic planners and believe in teamwork.

What are some of the main challenges you face as a female, did you work harder to gain respect?

The biggest challenge I think is that most people still live with mentality that certain businesses or tasks are better handled by men. The challenge that women face is balancing between business and family. Women are expected to be the backbone of the family, and need to find a way to manage that as well as involvement in business. I have worked hard, and that is because of my belief that to have respect you should get reputation for being really hardworking at what you do.

What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?

It is you who defines the meaning of success. If you work smarter you will win, and any women can be on her way to making her entrepreneurial dreams come true.

Did you receive enough support from your family to pursue a career?

Absolutely. My family is incredibly supportive of me, I love them and always share my success with them.

Who inspires you?

My inspiration is myself every single day I learn from my mistakes and grow from them.

What are your future plans?

To drive my company to be one of the best in the market with a solid performance to serve our clients. Making service an important cultural value.