The insurance industry has come together to pay tribute to former IAG manager and workers’ compensation doyen Jen Mitchell, who died recently aged 63 following a battle with cancer.

Melbourne-based Ms Mitchell trained as a lawyer and initially worked in HR, including a stint at Diners Club.

She moved into the workers’ compensation industry via Catholic Church Insurances as GM People, Culture & Service, and during her time with Cambridge Integrated Services, was recognised with a WorkSafe excellence award.

She then moved to WorkSafe Victoria as Director, Capability & Service, shifting the focus to individuals’ safety in the workplace, and referring to those injured at work as “injured workers”, not claimants.

Ms Mitchell started at IAG in 2010 as Victorian State Manager Workers’ Compensation, before a spell as EGM Claims from 2014 to 2016. Her most recent role was Director, Claims at AMP.

CBN CEO Richard Crawford, a family friend and former colleague of Ms Mitchell, remembered her as “a giant of heart and mind” and said “nothing prepares us for this loss” in a post on LinkedIn, which led to hundreds of responses in support.

“Jen had an enormous influence on lives from across the insurance industry, friends, colleagues and those she mentored and coached,” Mr Crawford told insuranceNEWS.com.au.

“She was a champion for the needs of individuals and built a reputation for her strong human advocacy in the workplace.

“She served as a Director of the Personal Injury Education Foundation for a number of years, promoting the professional and personal development and training of those working in the industry – which she strongly supported throughout her career.

“She was known for bringing humanity, courage and advocacy for doing the right thing by people, with an unwavering and strong moral compass and genuine empathy.”

Mr Crawford said Ms Mitchell did not want a funeral or service, but encouraged a small donation to the Jim Stynes Foundation.

Click here to donate.