Jacqueline Detablan: Growing Through Challenge and Credibility

Congratulations to Jacki Detablan, VP, Specialty & Risk Managed Casualty, on being named an Elite Woman Award recipient. Jacki’s leadership journey has been shaped by a willingness to learn, seek feedback, and step into challenges that stretch her technical and personal confidence.

In our conversation, Jacki reflected on the moments that helped shape her growth as a leader, the importance of women supporting one another across the industry, and the advice she shares with those looking to build credibility and influence in technical and specialty roles. Here’s her perspective:

What moments or support in your career have been most important in shaping your growth and visibility as a leader?

A big one for me was going through a 360 degree feedback process. The people involved were honest and genuinely invested in the insights I’d receive. It was humbling, but it also built confidence, because it gave me a clearer picture of my strengths and where I could grow.

Another key factor was adopting more of a “why not” mindset. Being willing to step into new challenges, even when I didn’t feel fully comfortable, helped me expand what I believed I could do.

And I’ve kept feedback at the center of my growth. I ask for it consistently—from leaders, peers, and my team, because that’s how you stay learning and stay sharp.

What change or progress would you most like to see for women in our industry, and what role do you hope to play in driving that forward?

I’d like to see continued growth in the way women support one another across the industry. Both formal and informal spaces to connect and share are important—they help sustain a strong community where women can learn from each other’s experiences.

I also hope to continue mentoring young women and find a great deal of fulfillment in seeing those I’ve crossed paths with succeed. These relationships are reciprocal. Learning from different generations brings valuable perspective and insight into navigating the challenges we all face.

What advice would you offer women aiming to grow in technical or specialty roles?

Put the time into learning your craft. Technical credibility doesn’t happen by accident; it comes from being deliberate about learning at every opportunity.

At the same time, build a solid network. The insurance community has a lot of allies, and relationships can open doors, accelerate learning, and give you support when you’re stretching into new territory.

If you want to excel technically, take every chance to deepen your expertise and become someone others can rely on. That’s how you build your personal brand as a resource—and recognizing those learning opportunities as they come is a big part of the journey.

Explore more Elite Women leaders

This interview is part of our Elite Women blog series. Discover insights from Erin Gattoni and Lynn Lafortune to learn how each leader is helping shape the future of the insurance industry.