Women in Hamilton: Kimberley Caines-Best

Bermudian lawyer Kimberley Caines-Best began her career in private practice before moving to financial services and now Bermuda domestic insurer Argus where she is associate general counsel.

She says one of her ambitions is to be a champion for change in diversity, equity and inclusion.

Give us a snapshot of your career to date.

Reflecting on my career journey, I can see how each role has prepared me for the next. I am a lawyer, called to the Bar, in both Bermuda and England and Wales (though I’m currently not practising). I serve as in-house counsel for The Argus Group, advising on various legal risks and issues. My legal career began in private practice, where I spent about seven years in civil litigation on a litigation and disputes resolution team. I then moved in-house, first joining a bank in Bermuda as legal counsel. About four years later, I joined Argus as senior legal counsel. Two years into this role, I was promoted to Associate General Counsel. Throughout my career, I’ve practised law in different technical areas, and the skills I’ve acquired from each position have prepared me well for my career in the insurance industry.

What attracted you to re/insurance?

When the opportunity in the insurance industry presented itself, I seized it. As they say, the rest is history. Taking this step was about embracing risks and stepping out of my comfort zone, which ultimately led to significant personal and professional growth. I enjoy using my legal skills to provide advice and guidance to my business partners. Moreover, insurance is a surprisingly dynamic and rewarding industry. From my position within the organisation, I am exposed to and involved in many aspects of our business, allowing me to offer valuable, comprehensive advice.
Who inspired you or acted as a mentor in your career?

Great question! I have been intentional about seeking out women in my profession to look up to. In the legal practice, when you start out, you have a mentor – a more senior lawyer – who you shadow for a year or two before being called to the Bar. My mentor during this period was Juliana Snelling. Additionally, another lawyer who has inspired me for years and continues to do so is Sophia Greaves.

Both women have achieved remarkable success in their respective careers and have been dedicated to ensuring the success of those following their footsteps.  
What are your ambitions?

For the immediate future, my ambition is to continue being a proactive business partner who models the company’s values and delivers exceptional value through practical and timely advice and solutions. Additionally, I aim to be a champion and ally for change, particularly in the DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) space.

In 10 or 20 years, I hope to continue enjoying what I am doing!

Do you feel the re/insurance industry has made progress in terms of diversity and inclusion since you entered it?

Since I began my career, there has been noticeable progress in terms of diversity and inclusion within the re/insurance industry. The Bermuda Monetary Authority’s recent ESG study highlights the efforts insurance companies are making in this area.  Additionally, the work of the Association for Corporate Raciel Equity (ACRE) in addressing diversity and inclusion is commendable. However, there is always room for continual improvement. It is important to note that alongside diversity and inclusion, equity is a crucial component of this discussion.
Do you feel this sector is especially attuned to diversity and inclusion?

I think all industries, particularly following the Black Lives Matter movement, became more attuned to diversity and inclusion issues. However, there are still areas for improvement, such as achieving more diverse representation across all levels of organisations. What I admire about our company is the public stance we have taken to address DEI issues and the work of our BELONG BLAC committee. It is a privilege to serve on that team.

Is there anything you would like to improve or change?

In all industries, representation matters. Having diverse individuals at every level of an organisation is essential. It’s so important for young girls to see women and for people of colour to see others like themselves in leadership roles, regardless of where they are in their career. Our organisations should ultimately reflect the diverse communities we serve.

I am also passionate about addressing the issue of the leaky pipeline, where women abandon their careers, a problem that was especially highlighted after Covid. We need to create better support systems and opportunities to retain and advance women in the workforce.

Have you encountered any challenges related to diversity and inclusion?

I have not faced any overt instances, but there have been moments and interactions where I questioned whether the response or reaction to me was influenced by my age, gender, or race.

Would you encourage other women to consider this sector?

Absolutely! Not only in insurance but also in law. Women’s voices and perspectives are essential in both fields.

Why is this industry great to work in?

The work is dynamic and varied for me. I get to experience working with all lines of business and be involved in developing areas that will impact the industry, such as ESG matters.

Why is Bermuda a great place to be?

Bermuda is great for so many reasons, not least of which is that it is a beautiful place to call home. AsI have advanced in my career, the main reason is peace and joy – or what some may call the work/life balance.