People In Insurance: Changing The Conversation podcast

People in Insurance: Changing the Conversation

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All About Change

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Chris Nowinski - Protecting Athletes from Head Injuries & Preventing CTE 27:28

8 dagen geleden27:28

Later Afspelen

Lijsten

Vind ik leuk

Leuk

27:28

Chris Nowinski is a former football player at Harvard University and professional wrestler with WWE, World Wrestling Entertainment. After enduring a career-ending head injury, Chris has dedicated his professional life to serving patients and families affected by brain trauma, particularly Chronic traumatic encephalopathy, or CTE, a progressive neurodegenerative disease that develops after repeated head injuries. Jay and Chris discuss the state of head injuries in American athletics, the difference between advocating for head safety at youth and professional levels, Chris’ newest research, and much more. Episode Chapters (00:00) Intro (00:50) changes in the culture around concussions in the past two decades (02:39) padded helmet technology (03:55) concussion reporting in the NFL (10:35) Chris’ career path and concussion history (14:52) connecting with activists who haven’t themselves suffered a traumatic brain injury (17:42) SHAAKE - a new sign to identify concussions (20:53) Unions can help players advocate for safety policies (23:10) final thoughts and goodbye For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation Stay in touch: X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/…

People in Insurance: Changing the Conversation

Thuis series•Feed

Welcome to People in Insurance: Changing the Conversation Join us as we delve into the dynamic intersection of diversity, culture, and technological innovations within the insurance industry. Listen in as Host, Sarah Myerscough, Chief Ideas Officer at Macaii, sits down to talk with trailblazers, thought leaders, and innovators who are reshaping the very fabric of insurance. Here, we bring you stories that not only redefine the narrative but also offer a fresh perspective on the evolving landscape of insurance. From ground-breaking initiatives to transformative insights, we’re your trusted guide through the winds of change. Tune in to People in Insurance, brought to you by Macaii, and stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving world of insurance.

100 afleveringen

#MBA #Business #theinsurancebroker

People in Insurance: Changing the Conversation

updated ongeveer een jaar geleden

Thuis series•Feed

100 afleveringen

#MBA #Business #theinsurancebroker

همه قسمت ها

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S2 E7: Courting a ‘Corporate Marriage’ With Your Software Vendor – with Andre Symes 38:47

14 weeks geleden38:47

38:47

Why is it crucial to curate and maintain a good relationship with your software vendor? How do you go about selecting the right vendor for your business, and when is the right time to jump ship to a new platform? Is our industry’s rapid entanglement with AI necessarily fraught with danger, and how can we exploit it to drive efficiency and enhance customer’s buying experience? As our access to and experimentation with data continues to fuel rapid changes to our industry’s broader infrastructure, it’s high time for many insurers, brokers and MGAs to adopt software to better manage their systems and products. This can feel like a minefield, with an ever-expanding array of Insurtech providers on the market, and with digital transformation projects frequently failing due to miscommunication between customers and software vendors. In this episode, we’re privileged to be speaking with Andre Symes, Group CEO of Genasys Technologies, about how to navigate these risks and curate a collaborative and long-lasting relationship with your chosen software provider. He describes the need for compromise in what will become a ‘corporate marriage’, and also explores the risks and opportunities that AI will present the insurance industry for years to come. Quote of the Episode “We need to start appreciating the fact that tomorrow's buyers are not buying insurance in the way that today's buyers are buying insurance… They don't own cars; they don't own homes. They just live in the gig. Unless we start shaping insurance to accommodate that, I think we're going to be disrupted, and we're not going to be disrupted internally. We're going to be disrupted from outside.” Our industry’s current architecture is contingent on a vision of modern society that is quickly slipping away. With car ownership, house ownership and pet ownership all declining, the next generation of insurance customers will be seeking cover to accommodate for a lifestyle entirely different from that which our industry is currently equipped for. This is accentuated by the advent of new technologies that are certain to radically transform the way we conduct our daily lives; not least self-driving vehicles which already are capable of 0% accident rates. Our industry has always been reluctant to adopt change; but those companies, and indeed sectors which fail to heed the warnings on the horizon are sure to be left in the dust. Key Takeaways The technology that will reshape our future has already arrived. For the insurance market to remain sustainable, it must adapt to the advent of AI and incorporate it into our everyday practices. Genasys is already using AI to make its platforms more user-friendly. If its customers, in turn, wish to incorporate AI to enhance their own clients’ purchasing journey, Genasys can facilitate this via an API connection. It is clear that AI and software, more broadly, will be key to building the insurance industry of tomorrow. However, software should always be an enabler, to allow businesses to function and provide the personal journey that will always remain front-and-centre of what we do as an industry. As such, when beginning a transformation project to adopt a new software for your business, you don’t want to end up stuck with a monolithic platform for the next several years that can’t evolve alongside you. Andre outlines two major steps to take before selecting a software vendor for your business. Firstly, he argues that you must meticulously interrogate the platform’s capability – via demonstrations, proof of concepts, and ideally, access to a digital sandbox. You need an in-depth understanding of what a platform is, and how it can be modified to suit your business’ needs. Secondly, it is also crucial to understand the capital structures of the platform provider. Is it sustainable in the long term – and will they exist for as long as you intend to use the platform? Selecting a software provider is the first step in what will become, hopefully, a five-to-ten-year long relationship – a ‘corporate marriage’. As such, there must be a culture fit between both businesses before the engagement takes place. Is this vendor a partner willing to have an open conversation about their platform’s capabilities, and how it can (and cannot) be modified to suit your business? Furthermore, when engaging in initial discussions with vendors, you must remember that compromise on both sides will be both inevitable, and key to a sustainable and healthy business partnership. Best Moments/Key Quotes “I was at an event recently, and I was listening to a couple of reinsurers talking about the fact that the data that they receive is sometimes 18 months old. If you're working with data that is 18 months old, your modelling is going to be impacted on that. So, what we need to try and do as an industry is get the data to the providers as quickly as possible. Link the platforms up via APIs. Get that data across to the carriers in real time so they can understand what the exposure is, and can understand what the loss ratios are. That way, there’s higher confidence, and with higher confidence comes more capacity.” “When you sign up for a platform, you're not doing it for a couple of years. You're doing it for hopefully 5 to 10 years. So that organization still needs to be around in ten years’ time. If they can't carry on raising at the valuations that the previous year raised, they're going to be ripe for acquisition in a couple of years.” “Genasys currently has 30 customers. And every single one of those CEOs of those customers has direct phone access to me. They phone me up if they've got a problem, or if they want to potentially acquire another business [and see] if can we accommodate it. Having personal relationships with your customers is really important, and you can't do that if you have to scale exponentially. You can't have a CEO-to-CEO relationship with 150 customers. And that's what we want to be in the short term.” ‘Any CEO telling you that they've had a perfect implementation history is lying to you.’ “It's effectively a corporate marriage because, you're going to be partners, a vendor and customer, for ten years. If you want that to be a happy relationship, you have to concede on either side and find a middle ground on implementation, pricing area, functionality, et cetera.” Resources Genasys Technologies: https://www.genasystech.com/ About the Guest Andre Symes is the Group CEO of Genasys Technologies, which develops bespoke end-to-end software platforms for insurers, MGAs, and brokers. During his thirteen years with the company, Andre has overseen its expansion into the UK and US insurance markets. Andre’s LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andre-symes/ About the Host Sharon Brown is a Board Advisor to Macaii and Genasys Technologies. She is also a Board Director for the MGAA and CEO of Nutshell Consultancy, which helps business leaders to develop innovative and strategic product distribution. With over 30 years’ experience in the industry across a host of businesses and roles, Sharon is well-equipped to interrogate the major issues and ideas challenging our industry today. Sharon’s LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-e-brown/ Website: www.macaii.co.uk…

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S2 E6: From Finance to Fine Wine: Becky Glover’s Approach to Leadership and Innovation 37:17

16 weeks geleden37:17

37:17

In this episode of 'People in Insurance,' host Sarah Myerscough sits down with Becky Glover from Yutree Insurance. Becky shares her unique journey from co-founding Elizabeth Rose Wines to becoming a Financial Director, navigating both the worlds of finance and entrepreneurship. The conversation delves into her rapid career progression, balancing non-traditional educational paths, and the importance of leveraging social media and personal branding. Becky also offers insights on supporting women in the workplace and the significance of celebrating professional milestones with the same enthusiasm as personal life events. Quote of the Episode “You can have it all, but you can't do it all. And neither should we expect people to do it all.” Key Takeaways "You can have it all, but you can't do it all." This powerful statement encapsulates Becky's philosophy on work-life balance, especially for women in the workplace. The importance of building robust support systems and delegating tasks both at work and in personal life. Becky's journey from leaving school at 17 without A-levels to becoming a Finance Director at 29 demonstrates that there are multiple routes to success. Becky advocates for apprenticeships, continuous learning, and proactively seeking opportunities. Technology and adaptability are crucial for business growth. Drawing from her experience in the tech sector, Becky highlights the importance of embracing technology, particularly in traditional industries like insurance. Becky highlights how technology and AI can improve efficiency, employee satisfaction, and overall business performance. Key Quotes “You can have all of that, but you won't do all of it yourself. So, start delegating some bits out, at work, if you get to a senior position, you're not expected to do that senior position at all. and do all of the roles underneath it. So why is it that in the home, we still expect ourselves to do the senior position and do everything underneath it that we used to have time for.” “Always say to people, businesses are just a group of people hopefully doing the same thing in the same direction to grow that business and to make it more valuable. So, what are you as an individual bringing to the table? So, for young people, it should be amazing for them to go and get some work experience somewhere, doing something interesting for them.” About the Guest Becky Glover is the Finance Director at Yutree Insurance, and she is known for her rapid career progression and significant contributions to the finance sector. She left school at 17 to pursue a direct path into finance, completing her AAT and ACCA qualifications through an apprenticeship. By 29, she became a Finance Director, demonstrating her ambition and strategic learning. Becky advocates for diversity in finance, serving on various boards such as AAT and GENCFO, and actively promotes the use of technology in business operations. LinkedIn profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/beckygloverfmaatfcca/ Becky co-founded Elizabeth Rose Wines !! Yutree Insurance is a specialist insurance broker and underwriting agency based in the UK. The company provides a range of insurance solutions tailored to the needs of businesses and individuals. They specialise in offering insurance products for commercial enterprises, including liability insurance, property insurance, motor fleet insurance, and professional indemnity insurance. Yutree also operates as an underwriting agency , designing and distributing insurance products on behalf of insurers. This dual role allows them to offer bespoke insurance solutions tailored to their client's needs. About the Host Sarah Myerscough is the Chief Ideas Officer at Macaii, formerly Boston Tullis. She hosts/co-hosts several podcasts and is known for her knack in connecting with people. Sarah excels in bringing out the best for video, podcast, and live events, helping clients showcase the human side of their business. Sarah is passionate about the evolving dynamics of the insurance industry and enjoys conversing with innovators, trailblazers, and long-term advocates of change. Website: www.macaii.co.uk…

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S2 E5: The Importance of Community Involvement and Leadership with Lucy Hodgson 28:59

18 weeks geleden28:59

28:59

In this episode of 'People in Insurance: changing the conversation,' Lucy Hodgson, a director at Eastwood Insurance Brokers, discusses her dual identities, her deep-rooted career in the insurance industry, and her commitment to community involvement. Inspired by her father, Lucy's journey in insurance started early, and she now leverages her experience to mentor and lead, especially through her work with the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA). The conversation explores the importance of giving back, the evolving landscape of training and insurance, and the need for adapting to modern challenges while fostering young talent and the need for the insurance industry to innovate its training approaches to balance flexibility with effective skill development. Quote of the Episode “If you ask the right questions, or ask, just ask questions, sometimes it doesn't need to be the right questions, just ask questions. Have an interest in somebody and it's amazing what you'll find out. You can then cater for them individually. Ask questions and make sure you're really listening to the answers.” Key Takeaways The importance of early exposure to the insurance industry: Lucy Hodgson's experience of visiting her father's workplace as a child and the impact it had on her career choice suggests a need for more initiatives to bring children into insurance workplaces and promote the industry as a career path. The power of leadership development programs: The Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) program that Lucy directs demonstrates the significant impact structured leadership experiences can have on young people. Lucy discusses the challenges of training new insurance professionals in the post-COVID era of remote work. She highlights the importance of maintaining hands-on, interactive learning experiences and the value of in-person interactions for developing skills and confidence. Key Quotes “I fell into insurance and then they laugh. Well don't just laugh, say I fell into insurance, but this is my career, this is who I am, this is what I do, these are the people I meet. Talk about it, tell a story of being an insurance person.” “I think over the next 10 years, technology is going to continue to, you know, move forward so, so quickly. I'm already feeling that I'm starting to get out of touch with some of it, to be honest. So, How I see the future is really, it's almost doesn't really matter what I think. I think it's about what do these young people think. We've got to give them the opportunity now to, to start having their say about things because the one thing I've noticed really is that they do think very, very differently.” About the Guest Lucy Hodgson, a director at Eastwood Insurance Brokers in Huddersfield, joined the company in 2006. Based in Huddersfield, she has significantly contributed to the firm's reputation for prioritising client-specific, independent insurance solutions. Lucy has built a notable career in the insurance industry, inspired by her father, who introduced her to the field as a child. Her extensive experience is complemented by her community involvement, notably through her role as the Course Director for the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA). She is also a vocal advocate for brokers engaging in community initiatives, enriching their personal and professional lives. https://eastwoodinsurancebrokers.co.uk/ About the Host Sarah Myerscough is the Chief Ideas Officer at Macaii, formerly Boston Tullis. She hosts/co-hosts several podcasts and is known for her knack in connecting with people. Sarah excels in bringing out the best for video, podcast, and live events, helping clients showcase the human side of their business. Sarah is passionate about the evolving dynamics of the insurance industry and enjoys conversing with innovators, trailblazers, and long-term advocates of change. Website: www.macaii.co.uk…

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S2 E4: Dementia Awareness in the Insurance World with Richard Dudley and Chris Park 52:13

21 weeks geleden52:13

52:13

This podcast episode of 'People in Insurance, Changing the Conversation' Sharon Brown takes the role of host, with guests Richard Dudley, and Chris Park discussing the intersection of the insurance industry with dementia awareness and research efforts. The conversation explores the mission of Insurance United Against Dementia (IUAD), initiated in 2017 to leverage industry collaboration for funding and awareness in partnership with the Alzheimer's Society. Key topics include an explanation of dementia and its impact, the importance of early diagnosis, and personal stories that highlight the challenges faced by individuals and families affected by the disease. The discussion also touches on the insurance industry’s fundraising efforts, having raised nearly £10 million, and future goals with IUAD 2.0 to further support Alzheimer’s research institutes and public awareness. The podcast advocates for continued industry support, citing recent developments in treatments like Lecanemab and the need for increased awareness and investment in dementia research globally. It encourages people to participate in initiatives such as the 'Insurance Day for Dementia' to sustain the momentum against this largest killer disease. Quote of the Episode "Research will beat dementia." - attributed to the associate director of research at the Alzheimer's Society Key Takeaways Dementia is caused by diseases that physically damage the brain, with Alzheimer's disease being the most common cause. Early diagnosis of dementia is crucial for providing proper care, support, and potential treatment. The insurance industry, through IUAD, has raised nearly £10 million to support the Alzheimer's Society and dementia research. IUAD funds have supported the UK Dementia Research Institute and crucial services during the COVID-19 pandemic. The insurance industry is well-positioned to support dementia causes due to its collaborative nature and reach. Key Quotes “If you've met one person with dementia, you've met one person with dementia. And this program really shows that you've got people of very different ages, different backgrounds, different demographics, and showing different symptoms and signs of dementia.” – Chris Park “People are dying from it, and I think that we need some education, some experiences shared on that dying process so it's not quite as scary for people when they have to watch their loved ones go through it.” – Sharon Brown “it's the beginning of the end for dementia. The researchers in the field will learn from Lecanemab and they'll learn from these other trials, and we’ll get to a point where the treatments are going to be able to be administered more easily and will be more cost effective and will have also made more of a journey in diagnosis.” – Chris Park “In fact, it's probably the biggest killer in the world. One in three people who are born today are going to develop these diseases: one form of dementia or another. And the amount of money and attention that is placed on trying to solve that challenge is ridiculously small when you compare it to some of the other bigger killers.” – Richard Dudley About the Guests Chris Park Chris is the Development Board Lead at Alzheimer’s Society. Leading a small team that work closely with ten senior members of the Insurance industry – who have the objective to raise vital funds for Alzheimer’s Society projects and awareness of the impact of, and support for, people affected by dementia. Chris and his team work with individuals and organisations from the wider industry under the leadership of the award-winning Insurance United Against Dementia (IUAD) campaign and senior level volunteer board members. Chris also works with senior figures in the sporting world, who have similar aims, ambitions and motivations to support the cause. A passionate fundraiser and relationship manager, Chris has worked in the charitable sector for over ten years. Including over 6-years at NSPCC and a 3-year term acting as a Trustee for disability cycling charity, Wheels for Wellbeing. This time in the charitable sector following on from his roles within not-for-profit organisations within the sport for development, and inclusion, space. Richard Dudley Richard joins BMS In December 2024 as Group Broking Director after a long career at Aon, where he was most recently responsible for driving Aon’s customer focussed strategy with respect to the challenges and opportunities presented by climate change. Prior to this appointment Richard led Aon’s London Market wholesale and specialty insurance business, having spent the years before this in Aon Reinsurance. He has worked in the London market for his entire 30yr career. He is also a working member of the Council of Lloyd’s. He previously served on the LIIBA Board, as Chair between 2020 and 2022, and as a member of the London Market Group board. About IUAD Since 2017, the Insurance United Against Dementia (IUAD) industry led campaign has raised over £9.6mn in partnership with Alzheimer’s Society. This incredible fundraising effort has provided funds to drive crucial support services to give help to people affected by dementia when they most need it, but also powered pioneering dementia research investments of Alzheimer’s Society, helping to provide hope for a future where dementia no longer devastates lives. About the Guest Host Sharon has over 30 years of insurance experience and a proven track record in creating and delivering insurance schemes and products, sales and marketing strategies, and robust business infrastructures. In a previous role as chief sales officer for a large independent Lloyd’s insurance broker, she developed original sales and distribution models for clearing banks, insurance companies, MGAs, and insurance brokers. Prior to this, she was a sales and marketing director. Latterly Sharon ran an MGA specialising in commercial After the Event dispute insurance. She executed a strategy to revitalise the business and the brand, redefine distribution channels and create new business opportunities. Sharon is currently working on some exciting projects with colleagues in the insurance industry. Sharon has a particular interest in advancing inclusivity in the insurance industry by embracing diversity, specifically by inspiring females and promoting a multi-generational and multi-cultural workforce. Sharon was named as a woman of influence in 2018 by Insurance Business magazine and was nominated in three categories for the Insurance Times Women in Insurance Awards 2020: Insurance Woman of the Year, Role Model of the Year, and Trailblazer. In 2021, Sharon was named on the IB UK Elite Women list. She is a passionate supporter of Alzheimer’s Society, a cause that is especially close to her heart. Sharon is a keen amateur horsewoman and regularly competes in local equestrian events. She has two adult children and a menagerie of animals.…

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S2 E3: Navigating Insurance and Entrepreneurship: Insights from Glenn Marshall of Gem Underwriting 28:37

22 weeks geleden28:37

28:37

In this episode of 'People in insurance: Changing the Conversation,' Glenn Marshall discusses his extensive career in the insurance industry, starting from his early attempts to become an electrician to his eventual success in underwriting. Glenn recounts his journey through various companies and mergers, the challenges faced including significant claims, and the ultimate establishment of his own firm, Gem Underwriting Agency. Highlighting the impact of relationships and technology in the insurance sector, Glenn shares his insights on entrepreneurship, the importance of sticking to one's expertise, and the satisfaction of working with family. The episode concludes with a special segment featuring the host's daughter, Isabel, who interviews Glenn about starting a business as a young entrepreneur. Quote of the Episode "Stick to what you know, basically, don't get too big for your boots." Key Takeaways Persistence is crucial in entrepreneurship: Glenn faced multiple challenges and setbacks but continued pursuing his goal of running his own business. Relationships are vital in the insurance industry: Glenn's success has been built on long-standing relationships with a core group of brokers. The importance of adapting to technological changes: Glenn recognizes the need to incorporate AI at some point and rating engines to stay competitive and satisfy capital providers. Work culture is changing: The shift towards remote work presents challenges in team cohesion and training, especially for smaller companies. Personal touches can make a business unique: Glenn named his company after his parents' sweet shop and incorporated family elements into the logo. Best Moment Glenn sharing the origin of his company name, "Gem Underwriting “I haven't got a middle name, so it's definitely not my initials. I was born and grew up in a place called Tilbury, and my mum and dad ran a sweet shop called The Gem. I always said to my mum, if I ever own my own business, that's what I'm going to call it." Key Quotes "’John (Murphy) would always give you enough rope to hang yourself. Unfortunately I did that a couple of times, but each time he had my back, thankfully." "You think you are reasonably good at what you do and to prove to yourself that you are I think you need to work for yourself, for your own satisfaction, your own mentality." "It's best to try as many different facets of what you want to do as possible." About the Guest Glenn Marshall's career in the insurance industry began in 1986 at Michael Payne Syndicate 386 @ Lloyds, a renowned name in the insurance sector. Over the years, Glenn has held various senior roles in Lloyd’s liability syndicates and managing general agents (MGAs), accumulating extensive experience and expertise in the field. His journey is marked by a consistent rise through the ranks, reflecting his deep understanding of the insurance landscape and his ability to navigate its complexities effectively. Throughout his career, Glenn has been involved in various facets of the insurance industry, gaining a wealth of knowledge and building a strong professional network. His roles in senior positions at different Lloyd's liability syndicates have given him a broad perspective on the market, allowing him to develop a keen insight into the needs and challenges faced by brokers and clients alike. Website: www.gemuw.com LinkedIn: Glenn Marshall | LinkedIn About the Host Sarah Myerscough is the Chief Ideas Officer at Macaii, formerly Boston Tullis. She hosts/co-hosts several podcasts and is known for her knack in connecting with people. Sarah excels in bringing out the best for video, podcast, and live events, helping clients showcase the human side of their business. Sarah is passionate about the evolving dynamics of the insurance industry and enjoys conversing with innovators, trailblazers, and long-term advocates of change. Website: www.macaii.co.uk…

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S2 E02: From Culinary Dreams to Compliance Leadership: Suneeta Padda's Inspiring Journey 35:09

24 weeks geleden35:09

35:09

In this engaging episode of 'Changing the Conversation,' Sarah interviews Suneeta Padda, the founder and managing director of PADDA Consulting, a London-based regulatory compliance firm. Suneeta shares her remarkable journey from aspiring chef to an award-winning consultant, detailing her experiences with arranged marriage, raising children, career shifts, and her significant roles in the insurance industry. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of starting her own business and highlights her dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion within the industry. Suneeta also provides valuable insights into balancing professional and personal life, drawing from her own story of resilience and determination. Quote of the Episode "I would not want a job because I'm an Asian woman. I would want the job because I'm the best for that job." Key Takeaways Suneeta Padda's journey from aspiring chef to successful compliance consultant offers valuable insights for both personal growth and organisational development. Her experiences highlight the importance of resilience, cultural awareness, and inclusive practices in today's business world. Some key takeaways from her interview include: Resilience can come from facing cultural and personal challenges from a young age Diversity without inclusion can lead to high attrition rates in organizations Family values can be successfully integrated into business practices Open communication and education are crucial for advancing diversity and inclusion in the workplace Starting a business can be lonely, but building a community of like-minded entrepreneurs can help Balancing work and personal life require creative solutions and efficient time management These lessons from Suneeta's career underscore the need for a holistic approach to business leadership that considers cultural backgrounds, personal experiences, and diverse perspectives. By embracing these principles, individuals and firms can foster more inclusive, innovative, and successful environments. Key Quotes "I'm helping people who are coming into our insurance market and broader afield with those aspects of that integration into the workplace and it's okay to be yourself. It's okay. You hear a lot of firms saying, bring your whole self to work. How much of that is actually true?" "I don't seem to be able to compartmentalise any of it, but both a blessing and a curse. But it really feels much more prevalent in the conversations I'm having in the cultures that businesses are trying to foster. And I think it's a really good thing." "Diversity without inclusion would naturally lead to a high attrition rate. Because if you don't feel included somewhere, why would you want to stay?" About the Guest Suneeta Padda is the Managing Director and founder of Padda Consulting, a London-based firm specialising in regulatory compliance for the insurance industry. Established in 2012, Padda Consulting serves diverse clients globally, including brokers and insurers. Suneeta is also committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in the industry and mentors’ women from non-traditional backgrounds. They recently won the London Market Consultant/Advisory Supplier of the Year award. You can find Suneeta on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suneetapadda/ https://padda-consulting.co.uk/ About the Host Sarah Myerscough is the Chief Ideas Officer at Macaii, formerly Boston Tullis. She hosts/co-hosts several podcasts and is known for her knack in connecting with people. Sarah excels in bringing out the best for video, podcast, and live events, helping clients showcase the human side of their business. Sarah is passionate about the evolving dynamics of the insurance industry and enjoys conversing with innovators, trailblazers, and long-term advocates of change. Website: www.macaii.co.uk…

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S2 E01: Sharon Brown and Sarah Myerscough Lessons Learned Behind the Mic 40:24

25 weeks geleden40:24

40:24

This episode of the podcast captures a candid and insightful conversation featuring Sarah Myerscough, Chief Ideas Officer at Macaii and Sharon Brown cert CII, Director MGAA, Director, Consultant, CEO, NED, Founder, and Angel Investor. Sarah and Sharon switch roles in this unique episode where host becomes guest as Sharon is in the hot seat asking the questions! Sarah shares some humorous lessons from her past business ventures, including the importance of logistics planning and researching potential business names. They delve into Sarah's journey in the insurance industry, including the foundation of Macaii (formerly Boston Tullis) with her father, overcoming personal challenges such as her stroke, and navigating turbulent times including family health crises and the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation highlights the importance of diversity, culture, and tech innovations in insurance, along with the power of authentic storytelling through podcasts. They also discuss effective marketing and sales strategies, team dynamics, and the personal growth Sarah has experienced through her career and family life. Quote of the Episode "Every single business exists to sell something. Product service doesn't really matter, but you have to have something to sell, and there has to be someone who wants to buy it. Right? And telling that someone who wants to buy it, what your something is and how it can help them is marketing and sales. And it is literally that simple." “I couldn't pick one. I learned something from every single podcast I do. And I've got a little book where I write down what it is that I've learned.” Sarah Key Takeaways Sarah Myerscough trained as a barrister and worked as an asylum lawyer before entering the insurance industry. Sarah has faced numerous personal and professional challenges while building her business, including family health issues, the COVID-19 pandemic, and suffering a stroke herself. Despite these setbacks, she has persevered and maintained her business. Sarah has three children, including one diagnosed with autism. She discusses the challenges of balancing family life with running a business, emphasising the importance of flexibility. Sarah’s business Macaii's specialises in creating content through podcasts, videos, and event coverage for insurance industry clients. Sarah values authenticity and vulnerability in her interactions, which helps put her podcast guests at ease. She learns something from every interview she conducts. Company name origin: The name "Macaii" comes from a Hawaiian word meaning "drawn to the sea," reflecting Sarah's love for the ocean Marketing strategy insights: Sarah discusses the importance of integrating marketing strategy with overall business strategy. She emphasises the need for businesses to understand their target audience and create multiple touchpoints before making a sale. Sarah expresses pride in maintaining her family life, marriage, and business despite numerous challenges over the past five years. She sees her resilience as a major accomplishment. Key Quotes “Sarah Myerscough is predominantly behind the camera at events, and you've seen Sarah around now I refer to Sarah as the pocket rocket of the industry in terms of the events that we participate in.” Sharon Brown “I think just being my authentic self is really important.” Sarah Myerscough “The reason I came out of law is because I remember going to pick my middle daughter up from nursery and she was two, I think. And I remember having to go in and ask which room she was in. And I thought, Jesus, something's gone wrong here. Something's gone horribly wrong because I’m not being the mum I wanted to be This has to change now.” Sarah Myerscough “One was recording a podcast, and my son came in and shot me between the eyes with a Nerf bullet. Which was interesting. And a second one was when my daughter came in sobbing like somebody had just shot her.” Sarah Myerscough About the Guest Host Sharon has over 30 years of insurance experience and a proven track record in creating and delivering insurance schemes and products, sales and marketing strategies, and robust business infrastructures. In a previous role as chief sales officer for a large independent Lloyd’s insurance broker, she developed original sales and distribution models for clearing banks, insurance companies, MGAs, and insurance brokers. Prior to this, she was a sales and marketing director. Latterly Sharon ran an MGA specialising in commercial After the Event dispute insurance. She executed a strategy to revitalise the business and the brand, redefine distribution channels and create new business opportunities. Sharon is currently working on some exciting projects with colleagues in the insurance industry. Sharon has a particular interest in advancing inclusivity in the insurance industry by embracing diversity, specifically by inspiring females and promoting a multi-generational and multi-cultural workforce. Sharon was named as a woman of influence in 2018 by Insurance Business magazine and was nominated in three categories for the Insurance Times Women in Insurance Awards 2020: Insurance Woman of the Year, Role Model of the Year, and Trailblazer. In 2021, Sharon was named on the IB UK Elite Women list. She is a passionate supporter of Alzheimer’s Society, a cause that is especially close to her heart. Sharon is a keen amateur horsewoman and regularly competes in local equestrian events. She has two adult children and a menagerie of animals. About the Host Sarah Myerscough is the Chief Ideas Officer at Macaii, formerly Boston Tullis. She hosts/co-hosts several podcasts and is known for her knack in connecting with people. Sarah excels in bringing out the best for video, podcast, and live events, helping clients showcase the human side of their business. Sarah is passionate about the evolving dynamics of the insurance industry and enjoys conversing with innovators, trailblazers, and long-term advocates of change. Website: www.macaii.co.uk…

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Macaii S1 E014: Shaping Business with Kindness: Donna Scully's Journey with Carpenters 33:13

33 weeks geleden33:13

33:13

How can ethical business practices and a focus on fairness shape a company's culture and success? What role does mentorship play in fostering the next generation of business leaders? In this episode of Changing the Conversation, we're delighted to speak with Donna Scully, co-owner of Carpenters Group, about her journey in building an ethical business and her passion for mentoring young entrepreneurs. Donna shares insights from her 30-year career in the insurance industry, discussing how she and her business partner John shaped Carpenters Group around core values of fairness, customer focus, and employee wellbeing. She reflects on the challenges and rewards of running a business with strong ethical principles, and how this approach has contributed to the company's growth and positive reputation. Quote of the Episode "We wanted to be really good at what we did, and we want to try and be proud of what we did and the way that we did it. And the way that we achieved it." For Donna, success in business isn't just about financial results – it's about building something you can be proud of, treating customers and employees well, and making a positive impact. This philosophy has guided Carpenters Group from its early days to its current position as a major player in the insurance industry. Key Takeaways Donna emphasises the importance of investing in people and technology to deliver excellent customer service. She discusses how Carpenters Group has maintained its commitment to fairness and ethical practices even as it has grown to over 1,500 employees. Key elements of their approach include: Focusing on customer needs rather than short-term profits Investing in technology and training to improve service delivery Cultivating a no-blame culture that encourages innovation and problem-solving Promoting diversity and providing opportunities for career growth Balancing business needs with employee wellbeing and work-life balance Donna also shares her perspective on mentoring, drawing from her own experiences of being supported in her career and her current efforts to guide young entrepreneurs. She stresses the value of taking opportunities, continuous learning, and developing both technical skills and emotional intelligence. Best Moments "I think for me and John, our view was, well, if you do it well, there's always room for you and there's always a place. So, we're going to give it a go." "We try to run a no blame culture. I mean, I'm sure people... would say that's it's not perfect, but, you know, you try to say, you know, we get things wrong." "One of the things I've always done since I was young and I don't remember not doing this, is I take every opportunity that comes. So, if someone says, do you want to try that? I'm in." "Everything is about relationships. Everything is about communication. When you have bad relationships with bad communication, it doesn't matter how smart you are, you won't solve problems." Key Quotes “I felt like sometimes the customer focus was a bit lost and for me, one of the things that John and I decided early on was that we wanted to be really good at what we did, and we want to try and be proud of what we did and the way that we did it and the way that we achieved it. And what's funny is. You make money.” Donna Scully “When something goes wrong, I think instead of going, oh my God, I need to lie on the floor and drink six bottles of wine and scream. I go, how are we going to fix this?” Donna Scully “Thank God I'm not bad at my job because I'm so bad at other things. But then, that, that keeps your feet on the ground. You can't be great at everything.” Donna Scully “Someone having that belief in you is very powerful.” Donna Scully About the Guest Donna Scully is the co-owner of Carpenters Group, a leading provider of insurance and legal services in the UK. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, Donna is known for her commitment to ethical business practices and her advocacy for diversity and inclusion in the workplace. She is also passionate about mentoring young entrepreneurs and supporting various charitable causes. About the Host Sarah Myerscough is the Chief Ideas Officer at Macaii, formerly Boston Tullis. She hosts/co-hosts several podcasts and is known for her knack in connecting with people. Sarah excels in bringing out the best for video, podcast, and live events, helping clients showcase the human side of their business. Sarah is passionate about the evolving dynamics of the insurance industry and enjoys conversing with innovators, trailblazers, and long-term advocates of change. Website: www.macaii.co.uk…

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Macaii S1 E013: What Does ‘Good’ Look Like? With Jess Heagren 39:44

34 weeks geleden39:44

39:44

How can insurance companies better support working parents in the years after they have children? How should working parents endeavour to maintain a healthy work-life balance, and what practical measures should employers introduce to facilitate this? Despite the implementation of some measures to mitigate this, having children can be something of a kick in the teeth to working parents. This is particularly true for new mothers who typically suffer the financial burden of potentially sacrificing their career and struggling to return to it later on. These issues, and much more, underpin the work of Jess Heagren, Founder of Careers After Babies, who we are delighted to be speaking with on this episode. Jess shares her personal experience of juggling her former insurance career with motherhood, and her insights into how employers can better support their staff through this challenging transition. Quote of the Episode “What does ‘good’ for us look like? It looks like happy, healthy, nurtured children who have one parent around most of the time, but we both get to have professional fulfilment as well. That's our version of ‘good’. That will look different for everybody else. I think all the time we go along with a very traditional societal view of what ‘good’ looks like, which might be, the amazing mum who's baking from home and doing all the art and home-schooling, while her husband goes out to work and earns £200 grand a year. I think that's completely incongruous to today's society, and the way we are as people.” Ultimately, Jess is keen to reassure working parents that there is no need to strive for an idealised version of their lives, where their work, marital and parental responsibilities are always in perfect equilibrium. Instead, she suggests that parents should identify their own unique idea of what ‘good’ looks like to them, which will vary from couple to couple and family to family. She is sceptical of traditional notions of work-life balance or the gender disparity of mothers remaining at home whilst fathers go to work. Of course, for certain families this may be what ‘good’ looks like to them. However, it should not remain the standard, generalised model for all society to defer to, if we are to address continuing gender inequality in the workplace. Key Takeaways Many women in insurance and other related industries spend years building great careers, flying through the ranks and reaching the brink of huge success, only for it all to come crashing down when they have children. Many have to resort to part time work and experience little career progression, or quit their jobs entirely. The support infrastructure within professional services businesses for mothers and fathers alike, is woefully underequipped for modern parenting attitudes and ideas around work-life balance. For Jess, the pandemic was a key lesson for all society that work-life balance as it currently functions is wholly inadequate for sustaining a happy, healthy workforce. The system is broken. Whilst endeavours to introduce flexible working solutions have been broadly introduced across our industry, there is still much work to be done. There is, however, an appetite from many organisations to put the work in. Workplaces can facilitate change in this regard, and must evaluate the ways in which they cater to working parents, and the support mechanisms on offer for them before and after they have children. There is a financial incentive for doing so also. Not only would such support infrastructure create a more broadly happy workforce, leading to greater productivity and thereby positively impacting businesses’ bottom line; it would also enable great talent to remain in the industry, even if at a reduced capacity for a certain number of years. It is crucial, Jess argues, that workplaces foster a culture which encourages and enables people to be their true selves. Being authentic to who you are makes one a better leader, and a better individual contributor. The dynamic of living with a work and nonwork version of oneself, and navigating between the two on a day-to-day basis, is extremely psychologically damaging. It upholds a mindset that, in the workplace, one can never really switch off, or have a bad day. Organisations that place employee wellbeing in every regard at the centre of what they do have well-performing, and more loyal employees, leading to better results for the business overall. Best Moments/Key Quotes “When you work in insurance, I think because I'd spent my whole career in it, I never realized that that imbalance of women to men was unusual. It's not until you get older, and you get more senior, and you suddenly start to look around and think, ‘Well, hang on a minute. Nobody else in here really looks like me or sounds like me’. And you become increasingly aware of your femininity.” “If we're to take a positive from the whole pandemic, it's that we all learned that we haven't quite got this work-life balance thing right. Whether we're looking at mental health, whether we're looking at physical health, whether we're looking at caring responsibilities, whether we're looking at general happiness levels, we don't have it right. The system is fundamentally broken because it doesn't enable that.” “Barristers have one of the biggest gender pay gaps going. The average is 14%. I think theirs is about 29%. For me, there's a very linear relationship… we know that there's very little gender pay gap at 30 and it quadruples by the age of 40. The average age to have a child is 32. It's abundantly clear what happens in that time period to drive gender pay gap and inequality. It all comes down to how well we cater to working parents and how well we're supporting women and having children.” ‘I think we currently live in a time where being the best at everything has a set of expectations with it that aren’t healthy or achievable.’ Resources Careers After Babies Report: https://www.careersafterbabies.org/careers-after-babies-report Careers After Babies Accreditation: https://www.careersafterbabies.org/careers-after-babies-accreditation The New York Times – Millennial Men Aren’t the Dads They Thought They’d Be: https://www.nytimes.com/2015/07/31/upshot/millennial-men-find-work-and-family-hard-to-balance.html About the Guest Jess Heagren is the Founder of Careers after Babies and the author of the so-called landmark Careers After Babies report published in 2023 which went viral on LinkedIn. Prior to this, she worked in the insurance industry as a corporate strategist, and in her last insurance position she was a Strategy and Distribution Director in the commercial part of DLG. About the Host Sarah Myerscough is the Chief Ideas Officer at Macaii, formerly Boston Tullis. She hosts/co-hosts several podcasts and is known for her knack in connecting with people. Sarah excels in bringing out the best for video, podcast, and live events, helping clients showcase the human side of their business. Sarah is passionate about the evolving dynamics of the insurance industry and enjoys conversing with innovators, trailblazers, and long-term advocates of change. Website: www.macaii.co.uk…

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Macaii S1 E012: The Art and Science of M&A: Insights from Glenn Hirchfield 35:37

35 weeks geleden35:37

35:37

In this episode of Changing the Conversation, we dive deep into the world of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in the insurance industry with Glenn Hirchfield, founder of ALJ Consultancy. Glenn shares his extensive experience in M&A, offering valuable insights for both buyers and sellers in the insurance market. From the importance of cultural fit to the role of technology in valuations, Glenn provides a comprehensive overview of the current M&A landscape and offers advice for those considering selling their business. Quote of the Episode: "There is a flawed assumption that people are only interested in how much they can get for their business. And it's rarely, if ever, true that that's the primary driver for people." Glenn Hirchfield Key Takeaways: The importance of cultural fit in M&A deals The value of honesty and transparency in the selling process The role of advisors in navigating the M&A landscape The impact of technology on business valuations The significance of soft skills and personal factors in M&A decisions Best Moments/Key Quotes: "Be yourself. Say things as they are about your business, because if you do the opposite and try and pretend that you are something that you're not, regrettably it gets found out." "Please don't go into selling your firm thinking it's going to be easy. There are times when it's horrendous." "We see life-changing amounts of money often getting into the hands of people that have lived quite frugally and who have really devoted their entire career to building up something." Resources: ALJ Consultancy website https://www.aljconsulting.com/ About the Guest: Glenn has over 30 years in financial services, with a vast network of senior contacts and experience from AIG, ACE, and senior UK broking roles. As CEO and founder of ALJ Consulting, he specialises in originating, structuring, and executing deals in the US and European insurance markets. He is also an operating partner at Apollo Global Management. With deep expertise in M&A consulting and private equity, Glenn helps clients achieve strategic goals, providing tailored financial services and technology solutions. He assists private equity firms pre- and post-deal and helps sellers find buyers. Glenn's capital-raising experience offers clients valuable M&A insights. He aims to deliver discreet, value-added services for client success in today's fast-paced market. Glenn is married with three children, is active in his local church, and enjoys golf and cricket. About the Host Sarah Myerscough is the Chief Ideas Officer at Macaii, formerly Boston Tullis. She hosts/co-hosts several podcasts and is known for her knack in connecting with people. Sarah excels in bringing out the best for video, podcast, and live events, helping clients showcase the human side of their business. Sarah is passionate about the evolving dynamics of the insurance industry and enjoys conversing with innovators, trailblazers, and long-term advocates of change. Website: www.macaii.co.uk…

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Macaii S1 E011: Global Perspectives and Innovations in the MGA Market with Mike Keating 28:54

36 weeks geleden28:54

28:54

In this episode of Changing the Conversation, we sit down with Mike Keating, CEO of the Managing General Agents’ Association (MGAA), to explore the dynamic world of MGAs and their evolving role in the global insurance landscape. Mike shares insights into the growth and challenges within the MGA sector, the importance of strategic partnerships, and the exciting innovations driving the market forward. We also delve into the MGAA's rebranding efforts and their annual conference, which highlights the theme "The Power of Partnerships." Additionally, Mike discusses the critical role of the next generation in the industry and the importance of attracting young talent to the world of insurance. Quotes: "The MGA community is truly global and continues to grow at a very fast pace, with significant developments in the US, Canada, UK, and Australia." Mike Keating "We've seen excellent insure tech MGAs launching worldwide. However, the challenge often lies in balancing investment in technology with effective product distribution strategies." Mike Keating "Never take partnerships for granted. Understanding and aligning the objectives of all stakeholders is critical for success in the MGA ecosystem." Mike Keating "We have a moral obligation to showcase how exciting and dynamic the insurance industry is. From insuring sports stadiums to Formula One, there are endless opportunities for young professionals." Mike Keating Resources: Managing General Agents’ Association (MGAA): www.mgaa.co.uk MGAA Annual Conference: www.mgaa.co.uk/mgaa-conference-2024/ MGAA Podcast - MGA Conversations: https://mgaaconversations.podbean.com/ About the Guest: Mike Keating is the CEO of the Managing General Agents’ Association (MGAA), where he leads efforts to support and promote the MGA sector within the insurance industry. With a career spanning over three decades, Mike has a wealth of experience in insurance, having held senior roles at various prominent organizations. Under his leadership, the MGAA has grown to represent over 230 members, placing billions of pounds into the UK and Irish markets. Mike is passionate about fostering innovation, building strategic partnerships, and advocating for the next generation of insurance professionals. About the Host Sarah Myerscough is the Chief Ideas Officer at Macaii, formerly Boston Tullis. She hosts/co-hosts several podcasts and is known for her knack in connecting with people. Sarah excels in bringing out the best for video, podcast, and live events, helping clients showcase the human side of their business. Sarah is passionate about the evolving dynamics of the insurance industry and enjoys conversing with innovators, trailblazers, and long-term advocates of change. Website: www.macaii.co.uk…

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Macaii S1 E010: Sustainable Insurance: Balancing Risk, Regulation and Opportunity with Gillie Fairbrother and Michael wrathall 29:41

37 weeks geleden29:41

29:41

What responsibility do small insurance firms have to implement sustainable practices, and encourage their clients to do the same? What initiatives can SMEs put in place to cut down on their carbon footprint without compromising their bottom line? Or is a transition towards sustainable efforts ultimately commercially beneficial? At Macaii we believe that podcasting is the best way to learn, and this episode of Changing the Conversation is a testament to that endeavour. We are thrilled to be speaking with Gillie Fairbrother and Mike Wrathall in a highly engaging and informative episode covering the importance of embracing sustainable practices as an industry, and the practical steps smaller firms can take to do so. This conversation cuts through the buzzwords and vague broad strokes discussions about a need to create change, highlighting the profound responsibility and the various opportunities that sustainability represents for our industry. Quote of the Episode “The insurance industry as a whole has a massive role to play in sustainability. It's an investor. It's one of the biggest investor groups in the world. It's an enabler of business. So, whether you're an oil rig or a new wind farm, you need insurance to get that project off the ground. What the insurance industry chooses to insure is what happens, effectively. So, if the industry moves away from insuring so-called ‘dirty economy’ things over a period of time and moves towards insuring new areas that are breaking ground, it can really enable those new areas, new climate technologies to get off the ground, and it can help phase out the other areas.” When assessing our sustainable responsibilities as an industry, it is key that we examine not only the direct, first-hand carbon footprint of our own businesses, but also those of our clients. By insuring our clients’ businesses, we are effectively interconnected with their sustainable efforts, or lack thereof. By insuring businesses that deploy or harvest fossil fuels, we enable them and must take some responsibility for the damage they cause to our environment. Equally, this presents an opportunity. If we can encourage our clients to transition towards new practices and green technologies, we can precipitate extensive, sustainable change across an array of businesses, industries and economies. Key Takeaways As an industry, we have the power to nudge the business community in the right direction with regards to sustainability. We can use policy terms to behaviourally transition clients away from outdated practices, ratcheting premiums up and down in response to sustainable endeavours. Yet, whilst we undoubtedly hold significant power in the sustainability conversation as an industry overall, our economy is primarily comprised of small businesses (99%) which may feel somewhat powerless to contribute anything significant beyond compliance with sustainability regulations. The same is true for small insurance firms. Both Gillie and Mike affirm that firstly, it is key to identify what your business’ exposure is, and identify where to play in the sustainability space. Could your business cover a new or growing area, such as climate tech or wind farms? Can you incorporate sustainable efforts into your policies to encourage good behaviours in your clients? Ultimately, our industry aims to make its clients’ businesses more viable and successful. If we are to encourage sustainable efforts in our clients, it is key to identify and illuminate the demonstrably positive impact of such practices on their bottom line. There will always be a range of client needs with regards to sustainability, with some simply wishing to comply with regulations, and others aiming to positively impact the planet through their work. Wherever our clients fall on that gradient of ambition, articulating the opportunity for their bottom line will always help to push them up that curve. Not only is sustainability ultimately a profitable enterprise. We are now at a stage economically where sustainable practices cannot simply be considered a tick-box ethical business practice exercise. A failure to implement these broadly across insurance and into the businesses we support as an industry will lead to catastrophic economic consequences in the not-too-distant future. As Mike argues, ‘the only real growth story for the economies and businesses of the century is going to be a sustainable one’. Mike notes that we ultimately need to create a circular, regenerative global economy which forefronts sustainability. This will be highly reliant on digital connection, supplanted by an array of climate technologies that will become increasingly significant in years to come. In 2018, 9.1% of the world’s economy was circular, but in 2023, this had fallen to 7.2%. We cannot afford to go backwards. Ultimately, the insurance industry will bear the brunt when climate disaster strikes. We have a responsibility and a clear business incentive to be ahead of the curve and encourage our clients towards sustainable practices, today. Best Moments/Key Quotes “We [Davies Group] are actually rebranding to responsible business. But I'm very much keeping that in the background. Like our pillars don't change. We've always aligned with people, planet, and our purpose which aligns with ESG. But it's still everything we're doing as a business and our commitments aren’t changing. Let’s just get rid of the noise and get on with the work.” “We have an opportunity as an industry to drive change. But it's hard for businesses to go ahead of regulation. And are we getting the right regulation?” ‘Digital connection is absolutely essential for the move to anything like a circular economy.’ Resources Larry Fink’s 2024 Annual Chairman’s Letter - https://www.blackrock.com/corporate/investor-relations/larry-fink-annual-chairmans-letter The Circularity Gap Report 2023 - https://www.circularity-gap.world/2023 About the Guest Gillie Fairbrother is the Director of ESG at Davies Group, a professional services business which provides support to the insurance industry. Gillie’s LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gillie-fairbrother-2723a320b/ Mike Wrathall is an independent consultant working across sustainability and digital. His background is in digital transformation and sustainability strategy, having previously worked in Monitor Deloitte’s sustainability and climate strategy team. Mike’s LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-wrathall-03880a67/ About the Host Sarah Myerscough is the Chief Ideas Officer at Macaii, formerly Boston Tullis. She hosts/co-hosts several podcasts and is known for her knack in connecting with people. Sarah excels in bringing out the best for video, podcast, and live events, helping clients showcase the human side of their business. Sarah is passionate about the evolving dynamics of the insurance industry and enjoys conversing with innovators, trailblazers, and long-term advocates of change. Website: www.macaii.co.uk…

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Macaii S1 E009: Protecting Clients and Preventing Knowledge Loss From the Insurance Marketplace with Donna Robertson 32:52

39 weeks geleden32:52

32:52

Has the Consumer Duty really changed the insurance landscape to protect customers’ best interests? Are any poor practices still slipping through the cracks? What changes can we implement as an industry to maintain a rich ecosystem of knowledge even as people retire? In this episode of Changing the Conversation, we are thrilled to be speaking with Donna Robertson, Managing Director of Squared Insurance Brokers! She discusses the challenges of balancing personal responsibilities with your career ambitions, and how the industry needs to reformulate its approach to hybrid and remote working solutions. Furthermore, Donna is deeply interested in treating clients fairly. She elucidates her frustrations with the Consumer Duty which, she argues, has failed to institute many practical changes for customers. Quote of the Episode “Although there have been the technology advancements, I wouldn't say on a whole that the industry has evolved very much. I think we're still getting caught out by practices that we should have left in the dark ages. I know that the AFC are doing a huge piece on Consumer Duty. Has it actually changed anything in the landscape? I would say probably no, other than not selling GAP insurance anymore. I wouldn't say there's been other changes. The changes that I would like to see are on a more practical level.” For Donna, beyond the more superficial shifts to our working practices and the transmission of data, generally our industry is little more efficient or accommodating to clients than it was when she began her career 25 years ago. She argues that clients continue to be subjected to unfair treatment via various unsavoury practices (notably in motor fleet and liability insurance) that need to be struck out. Key Takeaways A key area of concern highlighted by Donna which Consumer Duty has failed to address pertains to motor fleet insurance. She argues that it is very difficult for clients to switch their cover provider as the holding broker can retain the client’s information for a five-day period before releasing it, and thereby limit their options. This can create very challenging circumstances for business owners. For example, Donan cites an incident from within the last six months when she was approached by a client who had been put on an extension by their existing broker, and the terms of their cover had increased from £100,000 to £400,000. They had only two days to find an alternate solution, and the holding broker refused to release the confirmed claims experience to the client. Thus, the client was unable to get a hold of their own data to pursue alternate cover. Given that they had a fleet of over 100 vehicles, and the business couldn’t function without insurance, the client was forced to accept these terms, a deeply compromising position given the cost-of-living crisis. Insurance brokers should never be adding to the problems of clients, but the current state of motor fleet insurance effectively facilitates, or even encourages this. Donna suggests that this cynical type of poor broking practice is becoming much less common, but the onus is on the FCA and other broking institutions to intervene and prevent further client mistreatment. Donna empathised deeply with this client and their powerlessness in this predicament. This is exemplary of what previous guest Sam White terms ‘right brain’ thinking. This is an empathy-led, creative approach more typically associated with women, which the industry would hugely benefit from a more active incorporation of. As a people-facing industry, everything we do is reliant on relationships rooted in trust, which Donna’s empathetic approach is more likely to honour than purely analytical, numbers-led ‘left-brain’ thinking. Yet, due to the industry’s current flexible working infrastructure, it is incredibly difficult for women with children to balance this responsibility with their career ambitions. There are countless tales of women forced to leave their workplace as it failed to offer part time, remote, or flexible working solutions. While the pandemic led some companies to become more accommodating in this respect, there is still much work to be done. This departure of talent constitutes a significant loss of knowledge for the industry. This is accentuated by the rapidly aging nature of the insurance workforce. As people retire, swathes of knowledge are further detracted from the industry. Donna advocates for new apprenticeship programmes to create a new foundation of insurance knowledge, but argues that the age limit for such schemes should not be capped. What if someone wants to try a new role or industry in their forties or fifties? These schemes would enable us to bring in such people and let their prior experience and expertise facilitate new ideas and alternative decision-making. Best Moments/Key Quotes “Just because you've got children, you still have your own career goals that you want to get. And it would blow my mind that I would speak to some women, and they’d say, ‘well, I've had to leave this workplace because they can't offer me part time or flexible working’. And what a loss! What a loss of that knowledge and talent.” “[Our industry] is built on relationships and you build that trust with your clients. It can be a numbers game, but I do believe it's much wider than that. It's getting to know clients, and know what's going on in their world, to be able to then service them properly.” “I think a lot of men have the stronger voice, and we [women], think that we don't have an opinion, or we don't have a good enough opinion. But women can sometimes look at it and see a different perspective, and see other things that maybe the other side, the more analytical brain, isn't seeing. So, speak out more often, your thoughts are good, and you might come up with something that nobody else has thought of.” “If somebody wants to start a new role in their 40s or 50s, they've got transferable skills. So, let's make it easier for businesses and bring them in, especially when we know we’re going to have that loss of talent at the other end.” Resources Squared Insurance Brokers – https://www.squaredbrokers.com/ About the Guest Donna Robertson is the Managing Director of Squared Insurance Brokers, which she launched in late 2019. She has 25 years of industry experience, and advocates for greater flexible working accommodations and fairer treatment for clients. About the Host Sarah Myerscough is the Chief Ideas Officer at Macaii, formerly Boston Tullis. She hosts/co-hosts several podcasts and is known for her knack in connecting with people. Sarah excels in bringing out the best for video, podcast, and live events, helping clients showcase the human side of their business. Sarah is passionate about the evolving dynamics of the insurance industry and enjoys conversing with innovators, trailblazers, and long-term advocates of change. Website: www.macaii.co.uk…

2 years geleden33:59

33:59

Are your staff all on the same page about your broader business strategy? How do you communicate this on both an individual and a collective basis? How can alterations to your comms process fructify recruitment? In this episode of the Insurance Broker Podcast, we’re thrilled to be speaking with Phil Kelly, Managing Director of Pro Noctis Group. In the episode, Phil outlines the crucial importance of retaining ‘alignment’ within your business, by ensuring that your various teams and individuals are always aware of and actively contributing towards your company’s strategy. In conversation with Boston Tullis’ Sarah Myerscough, he emphasises that good communication is crucial to the alignment process, and notes that technology can be beneficial in this regard, but only if a channel suitable for your business is utilised. Quote of the Episode “The world's forever changing, and I think the way we embrace and engage our people really does pay dividends, if we can align it to what we're trying to achieve and communicate that effectively. More often than not, I think the people within an organisation are an afterthought, it's more ‘strategy first, and then they'll play catch up’. But actually, the biggest challenge to delivering progress or growth [is engaging staff], as part of the decision-making process.” An organisation only functions through the work of the individuals within it. For Phil Kelly, it is crucial for the people at all levels of a business to be both well-informed about and involved in its decision-making. If you only treat the employees within your business as functionaries facilitating a broader strategy, they will only perform their roles as such. Alternatively, if you can engage your staff with consistent and encouraging internal messaging, repeatedly emphasising your broader goals, they will be more willing to roll up their sleeves when the business inevitably hits bumps in the road. People derive fulfilment and satisfaction from understanding how their contributions are facilitating the mechanism of the business, and focused messaging in this regard will pay dividends in both productivity and staff retention. Key Takeaways This form of engaging staff communication will also help with recruitment, a key issue currently facing the insurance industry. Contrary to common misconceptions about Generation Z, young people want to work, but they also want clarity about the nature of their prospective employers – who are you as an organisation? What are you trying to achieve? By communicating this, you can demonstrate to prospective employees what their goals would be, and the broader strategy they would be contributing to, which are key factors by which young people navigate the recruitment process. Throughout this episode, Phil repeatedly returns to the term ‘alignment’, to articulate how easy it is for various teams to be functioning on splintered or even contradictory conceptions of their business’ overall strategy. It is essential that at every level of the business, there is a consensus of ‘Who are we as an organisation? What are our goals? How are we going to achieve them?’. Once this clear messaging has been delivered at all levels of the business, it becomes more resilient to the unpredictable impacts of external factors, namely the continuing socioeconomic turbulence we are facing. The key to achieving and delivering alignment within your business is effective and consistent communication. This must be repeatedly reinforced, by ensuring that every team in the business, and every individual within those teams, is always clear on its overall strategy. To keep your staff engaged with this messaging, creating a warm and friendly environment is crucial. A productive office ecosystem in which everyone is engaged creates to a rewarding and collaborative work experience. Best Moments/Key Quotes “As human beings, to get the best out of each other, we need to be a feeling that we are cared about, and we contribute, and we get regular feedback, good, bad and indifferent… If we really want to have that ecosystem of wellbeing and looking after each other, and really having a sort of a movement and working towards a goal, that's the type of effective leadership or management we need and that's not the role, obviously, of the CEO. They’re too far removed, but certainly, they should have an understanding with their senior or executive leadership team of what's going on with them rather than everything being transactional.” “It fundamentally comes down to, ‘How do we have better conversations and create clarity in our messages?’ because that creates alignment.” “Who are we as an organisation, as a team, what are we trying to achieve? And how do we go about our business? How do we behave and perform? When you get that aligned, you get congruence, and then when you're communicating those marketing messages, those key sales messages or even in the interviews, you're going to attract the right type of talent, and then all of a sudden, then you're going to have people making the right decision to come with you.” Resources Pro-Noctis - https://www.pro-noctis.com/ About the Guest Phil Kelly is the Managing Director of Pro Noctis, a training and consultancy business which helps organisations to align their strategies and streamline day-to-day decision-making. He was previously a professional footballer, before working for 11 years in the RAF as a trainer and educator. Phil’s LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-kelly-pro-noctis/ About the Host Sarah Myerscough is the Sales and Marketing Director of Boston Tullis Group. The founder of The Insurance Brokers Podcast, she brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective on communication in the insurance sector. Boston Tullis works with insurance professionals to build effective communication both internally and externally through podcasting, event reporting, videography, and internal communications facilitation. Website: https://bostontullis.co.uk/ Evaluation Link: https://s.bostontullis.co.uk/s/podcastevaluation…

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