Diana Haydar, director of direct sales at Nasco Insurance in Dubai speaks to Health & Protection about her 21 year career in IPMI, the challenge of premium inflation, the need for innovation, her top priorities for the year ahead, why nothing lasts forever and her love of Yellow and all the things it can do.
How long have you been in the international health and benefits advice industry and why did you start working in it?
I’ve been in the IPMI and local employee benefits industry for more than 21 years.
My journey began in the third-party administrator (TPA) sector, and five years ago, I transitioned into the broking side of the business.
This field has always been a passion of mine – it uniquely blends a vital human need with strategic and commercial value. Supporting people’s health while navigating a dynamic market is both meaningful and fulfilling.
How long have you been with your present firm and which markets does your company serve?
I’ve proudly been with Nasco Insurance Group for 21 years. The group is a leader in the insurance sector across the Middle East, GCC, Africa, Europe, and Korea.
We operate through multiple verticals, including insurance broking, reinsurance broking, underwriting, and TPA services, serving a wide array of industries and clients globally.
What is the biggest factor affecting the international health and benefits space for you and your firm?
One of the most pressing factors today is the consistent rise in premiums, driven partly by increasing healthcare costs and the emergence of experimental medical procedures.
Balancing client needs with affordability and quality care is an ongoing challenge.
Where do you see the future of IPMI in the Middle East?
With the current pace of market growth, I see continued demand for IPMI solutions. However, local markets are increasingly competitive, particularly when it comes to benefits and premium levels.
The IPMI space will need to innovate and adapt to remain sustainable and relevant.
Who has been your most important mentor throughout your career?
My first manager, who was also the general manager during my early years at Nasco, played a pivotal role in shaping who I am today.
He inspired confidence in me, sharpened my analytical and communication skills, and taught me to have a continuous drive for excellence.
What advice would you give people thinking about working in the international health and benefits sector?
This is one of the most noble and impactful fields you can work in.
It’s not just a career, it’s a mission that directly influences societal wellbeing. It’s also a space full of opportunities for personal growth, purpose, and reward.
What has been your greatest success at work?
My career has been marked by several proud milestones, but my greatest achievements have been building two profitable departments from the ground up.
I had the privilege of assembling and mentoring exceptional teams, many of whom have since become strong, independent leaders.
What are your top three priorities for the next year?
My priorities are clear and deeply personal: the wellbeing of my family, maintaining my health, contributing immensely to my company growth and making smart financial investments for the future.
What is one personal skill that most people do not know about?
Resilience.
I’m someone who remains composed and determined no matter the challenge, always finding a path forward.
What mantra do you live by?
“Nothing lasts forever.”
It reminds me to stay grounded in tough times and to appreciate the good moments while they last.
If you could work in any location in the world, what would it be?
Anywhere surrounded by beautiful nature: whether it’s mountains or beaches, where inspiration and peace coexist.
What song would you regard as your theme tune?
Yellow by Coldplay. It’s soulful, timeless, and full of emotion – much like the journey I’ve taken.