Bermuda – Influential Women in Hamilton: Melinda Mayne

Melinda Mayne is a senior associate in the corporate department of Appleby’s Bermuda office and a member of its insurance and reinsurance team, specialising in re/insurance law and regulation, including formation, licensing and ongoing regulatory requirements for Bermuda special purpose insures in the insurance-linked securities sector and commercial re/insurers.

She also practises in all areas of corporate and commercial law, including finance, public and private mergers and acquisitions, amalgamations, reorganisations and general corporate law.

Give us a snapshot of your career to date.

I was admitted to the Bermuda bar in 2017 and worked as a litigation lawyer in a local law firm but later switched into the corporate department. I wanted to broaden my knowledge and joined an investment bank in the City of London in the regulatory and compliance department. An opportunity arose to relocate back to Bermuda in 2021 and join Appleby’s corporate department. Since then, I have advised on a broad range of transactions in the re/insurance sector.

What attracted you to re/insurance?

Working in the corporate law department at Appleby provided me with many opportunities to advise on insurance-related matters. It was a natural progression to be part of the insurance team. The insurance industry is fascinating to me, especially with all the innovation that has a direct impact on society. This area of work provides me with a certain sense of fulfilment as it positively contributes to society.

Is there someone – or some people – who inspired you or acted as a mentor in your career?

A few people in my career have inspired me, some of whom also acted as mentors. I have been lucky to work with a few individuals at Appleby who have given me guidance and support throughout my career, without which I would not be where I am today.

“The insurance industry has a direct impact on society and provides a certain sense of fulfilment as it positively contributes to society.”

What are your ambitions?

I am happy with my job and where I am in my career. My ambition lies in continuing to learn and grow such that I remain an integral part of Appleby’s insurance team.

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

Yes, I have noticed that in recent years the insurance industry has aimed to become more instrumental in driving change towards diversity and inclusion in insurance jobs in Bermuda.

Do you feel this sector is especially attuned to diversity and inclusion?

Yes, over the past few years, I have witnessed a rise in women in more senior roles in the industry, due to a societal shift towards more female representation in business and closing the gender divide. Insurance companies are more open to having discussions on diversity and inclusion, although it is an ongoing process to get the balance right, the sector is moving in the right direction.

Is there anything you would like to improve or change?

Yes, I like to encourage young adults and those looking to make a career change to enter into the insurance sector. There is a tremendous amount of support for internships in the insurance sector, but I would like to see more opportunities for those in the later age brackets (i.e. 25 to 45) who are looking for a career change but do not necessarily have insurance-related experience. I would also like to see changes to the hiring process such that candidates are hired based on their skill set rather than on who they know in the industry.

What challenges have you encountered in your career and how did you overcome them?

I was lucky and did not have any real challenges in my career as a corporate lawyer. The only obvious challenge was having the necessary knowledge to advance my career. Knowledge is not something you gain without immersing yourself in whichever field you want to progress in, it does not happen overnight. And, it is a rare occurrence that in any given day/week that I am not learning something new. This is what keeps the job exciting.

What do you feel is your greatest accomplishment so far?

Changing my career and becoming a lawyer at a later age than most.

Would you encourage other women to consider this sector?

Of course, the insurance sector offers a very diverse selection of job opportunities and career advancement.

Why is this industry great to work in?

Insurance is a global industry, allowing professionals to work in different regions and explore international career opportunities.

Why is Bermuda a great place to be?

Living in Bermuda offers a unique blend of a vibrant expat and local community set against the stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the island. Bermuda boasts a high standard of living, with a diverse range of activities, pristine, white-sand beaches, crystal-clear water, water sports, golf and a warm climate nearly all year round that attracts both tourists and residents alike. If you enjoy a laid-back atmosphere and relaxed pace of life, then Bermuda is the place to be.

First Published in Bermuda:Re+ILS, August 2025