Suncorp has launched a career development scheme to reward and retain specialist staff who do not want promotion to managerial roles.

Specialist Career Pathways will be piloted by Suncorp Commercial Insurance’s claims and underwriting divisions, with a broader rollout planned later this year.

“Previously, specialist achievers were rewarded by promotion to managerial roles,” EGM Human Resources Naomi White said. “However, some are not comfortable in such roles and insurers may find they are losing skilled specialists who are bogged down in administrative managerial duties.

“The industry needs to move away from the traditional promotional pathway and look to rewarding such employees in a more meaningful way.”

Under the scheme, which Suncorp says is unique in the Australian market, employees can advance their careers as specialists, with few people reporting to them.

The option to move between specialist and leadership pathways will remain available.

“Offering career options gives our employees a chance to focus on developing their area of expertise while helping Suncorp build a strong competitive and commercial advantage,” Ms White said.