Allianz Asia Pacific proudly announces the inaugural graduation of 200 agents and agency leaders from its Pinnacle Excellence Program (PEP), a first-of-its-kind initiative co-designed with INSEAD, one of the world’s leading business schools. This milestone underlines Allianz’s dedication to equipping its agency force with advanced skills and insights to navigate the evolving financial landscape, while also supporting the broader Pinnacle 2030 strategy focused on sustainable growth and enhanced client engagement.
Among the 200 agents and leaders, are nine (9) LifeChangers from Allianz PNB Life: Artemio Wapanio, Carla Joyce Garcia, Sharon Joy Ang, Dan Angelo Mamerto, Hayde Zamora, Maricris Comendador, Mariel Mendoza, John Michael Licas, and Alfredo Emmanuel Butalid.
Transformative Outcomes and Strong Agency Performance
Graduates of this first cohort demonstrated over 40% growth in productivity, and nearly 40% qualified for the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT)—a global standard of excellence in financial advisory. These accomplishments contributed to Allianz’s robust 9M 2024 agency performance, marked by a 19% increase in New Business Value (NBV) and 8% growth in Annualised Premiums (ANP). Notably, ANP per active agent climbed by 11%, reflecting a strategic emphasis on developing a high-performing, client-focused agency network.
A Program Created “For Agents, By Agents”
From left to right: Dan Angelo Mamerto, Artemio Wapanio, Hayde Zamora, Carla Joyce Garcia, Mariel Mendoza, Sharon Joy Ang, Maricris Comendador, Alfredo Emmanuel Butalid, Orange Galsim, Gale Arrian Marquez, Jayvee Fontarum, and John Michael Licas
PEP was developed through extensive collaboration with leading industry practitioners, including Allianz’s top-performing agents and leaders across Asia Pacific. Their on-the-ground insights shaped a specialized learning journey that addresses the key drivers of long-term success in today’s competitive market. Unlike conventional insurance training programs, PEP integrates both academic rigor and practical application through:
- Blended Learning Delivery: Combining theoretical case studies, action-based projects, and role-playing exercises.
- Focused Skill Modules: Spanning Customer Psychology, Leadership, Communication, and Entrepreneurial Strategies.
- Real-World Application: Equipping participants to translate classroom learnings into tangible results, from client engagement to team leadership.
“Our vision at Allianz is to build a world-class agency force that delivers exceptional service and trusted financial solutions,” said Anusha Thavarajah, Regional Chief Executive Officer, Allianz Asia Pacific. “The Pinnacle Excellence Program is a key pillar of our Pinnacle 2030 strategy, designed to elevate our agency force, enhance client engagement, and drive long-term growth. Through this program, we are not just transferring knowledge—we’re shaping the future of financial advisory by equipping our agents with the skills, tools, and mindset needed for sustainable success.”
Art Wapanio, one of the Filipino LifeChangers in the program, expressed his gratitude for being part of the experience: “I am deeply thankful to Allianz for giving me the opportunity to participate in the PEP program. Learning from a world-renowned business school broadened my perspective on both business and life. The opportunity to collaborate with passionate colleagues from different regional offices allowed us to exchange valuable ideas relevant to our work. I am eager to apply all the knowledge gained to ensure I can effectively help my clients achieve their financial goals and move closer to realizing their life aspirations.”
Elevating Industry Standards
In an environment where customer expectations continue to evolve, PEP graduates emerge as highly skilled advisors and leaders committed to safeguarding their clients’ financial well-being. By emphasizing lifelong learning, advanced financial planning expertise, and leadership development, Allianz aims to raise the bar for quality advisory services in the region.
“At INSEAD, we believe in developing responsible leaders who can navigate complexity and drive meaningful impact,” said Sameer Hasija, Dean of Executive Education and Dean of the Asia Campus at INSEAD. “Our collaboration with Allianz in the Pinnacle Excellence Program exemplifies this mission—combining world-class business education with real-world application to empower agents with the knowledge, skills, and strategic mindset needed to lead and create positive change in today’s financial landscape.”
Looking Ahead: Growth and Future Enhancements
The 200 graduates represent a diverse mix of new agents, aspiring leaders, and experienced professionals—each benefiting from PEP’s structured, hands-on approach. Building on this success, Allianz will expand the program in the coming years, allowing more agents to:
- Access innovative learning methods tailored to an ever-changing market.
- Develop leadership capabilities that drive team performance and client trust.
- Contribute to sustainable growth in Asia’s dynamic financial services industry.
Allianz remains committed to creating industry-leading development pathways that prepare advisors for tomorrow’s challenges, ensuring clients receive best-in-class financial guidance well into the future.
