Corporate governance isn’t exactly the most exciting topic at dinner parties. But Douglas Robare has spent nearly 30 years watching it make or break companies in the insurance world. Through his work in underwriting, distribution, M&A, and new tech like AI, he’s developed strong opinions about what actually moves the needle. His hands-on experience has shaped his approach to helping insurance companies grow in measurable ways instead of just talking about it.
Strong Governance Drives Sustainable Growth
Most people think governance is all about rules and staying out of trouble. Douglas sees it differently. “Good governance is more than compliance. It’s about creating structures that align leadership, foster accountability, and support long-term performance,” he says. He’s worked with enough boards to spot the difference between the ones that help companies grow and the ones that just play defense.
The boards that look beyond risk and focus on strategy tend to spot opportunities others miss. Douglas has watched this play out in traditional insurance markets and newer tech-focused segments alike. It’s not about throwing caution to the wind. Instead, it’s building systems where people can make decisions without getting bogged down in bureaucracy. Companies that figure this out move faster when it matters most.
Strategy Must Be Execution-Ready
We’ve all seen it. Big strategy presentations that look great but fizzle out in real life. Douglas cuts through this common problem. “A great strategy means nothing without effective execution. High-impact strategies are those designed with clarity, flexibility, and alignment across teams,” he points out. The gap between big ideas and what actually happens trips up even smart, well-funded companies.
Douglas gets practical here. “Whether launching a new product or navigating an acquisition, success hinges on translating big ideas into actionable steps,” he says. His work focuses on getting everyone pulling in the same direction. “In my advisory work, I emphasize aligning people, processes, and technology to execute seamlessly,” Douglas explains. Without this alignment, even brilliant strategies collect dust while competitors move ahead.
Innovation Needs Governance—Not Micromanagement
Insurance isn’t known for moving fast, but that’s changing with AI and advanced analytics. The challenge is figuring out how to use these tools without creating new problems. Douglas frames it clearly: “With today’s fast moving development in AI and advanced analytics which has the capability to provide crucial support across core functions, organizations require the right guard rails to keep them safe. That is the role of governance.” Too many rules kill innovation, but too few create chaos. Douglas pushes for a middle path. “Governance should empower innovation, not stifle it,” he explains. Finding this balance takes work, but pays off. “By setting clear priorities, defining ownership, and encouraging responsible experimentation, organizations can embrace change and win, while mitigating risk,” Douglas notes. The companies that figure this out gain a serious edge.
The big picture comes down to execution. Douglas puts it straight: “To lead in today’s marketplace, businesses need more than just bold vision, they need robust governance and strategies built for success and tangible outcomes.” This matters for insurance giants and small players alike. His final thought hits the nail on the head: “Whether you’re scaling a startup or leading transformation in a legacy business, how you govern and implement strategy will define your success.” In the insurance world, where talk is cheap and results are everything, Douglas keeps pushing companies to build the systems that turn big ideas into real growth.
Connect with Douglas Robare on LinkedIn to explore how governance can accelerate business success.
