Empower Talks - Insurance Careers (Samantha Ridgewell)
Explore every episode of Empower Talks - Insurance Careers
| Pub. Date | Title | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 26 Jul 2021 | Emily Dunkley, L&D Partner for HDI Global Speciality and Hannover Re | 00:46:40 | |
In this podcast episode, we’ll be talking about all things learning. We are joined by Emily Dunkley, L&D Partner for HDI Global Speciality and Hannover Re, who shares her passion and enthusiasm for learning to learn. We looked at behavioural aspects around why we should learn and how we can do this even when life gets busy. To find out more about Emily’s work, you can get in touch with her on LinkedIn here https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-dunkley-99634922/ Empower Talks offers career insights and inspiration for insurance professionals. Conversations are hosted by Samantha Ridgewell, Managing Director of Empower Development who invites guests in to speak about topics of interest to those working in insurance. We'd love to hear your feedback or requests for future topics for us to discuss, get in touch with us at hello@empowerdevelopment.co.uk and find us on Instagram @empowerdevelopment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 09 Jul 2021 | Trailer | 00:07:27 | |
Welcome to Empower Talks the podcast where we discuss insurance careers with professionals from across the industry Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 02 Aug 2021 | Teni Tijani - Underwriter at IQUW | 00:28:45 | |
In this episode of Empower Talks, we speak to Teni Tijani - founder of Ladies That Lunch and Associated Underwriter at Travelers - about corporate networking. We reveal our top tips for when interacting across different levels and helping people build their exposure. You’ll find out how beneficial it can be to showcase what’s important to you and to get your voice out there. You can find Ladies That Lunch on LinkedIn here https://www.linkedin.com/in/teniola-tijani-9a609891/ and @_ladiesthatlunch on Instagram Empower Talks offers career insights and inspiration for insurance professionals. Conversations are hosted by Samantha Ridgewell, Managing Director of Empower Development who invites guests in to speak about topics of interest to those working in insurance. We'd love to hear your feedback or requests for future topics for us to discuss, get in touch with us at hello@empowerdevelopment.co.uk and find us on Instagram @empowerdevelopment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 16 Aug 2021 | Hanan Gathmy, Marketing and Partnership Representative for Deedbees | 00:35:21 | |
In this episode of Empower Talks, we are joined by Hanan Gathmy to discuss the importance of attracting young people into the Insurance industry, and particularly focusing around diverse talent. Hanan shares her own experience finding her way into the insurance market, as well as the work she’s been doing to develop her insurance career. Outside of her role as Underwriting Assistant, Hanan is also the Marketing and Partnership Representative for Deedbees, a platform that matches up young people with talent across industries. Listen to the full episode for support and different initiatives to discover insurance jobs and opportunities. You can get in touch with Hanan on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/hanan-guthmy-a12491179/ Empower Talks offers career insights and inspiration for insurance professionals. Conversations are hosted by Samantha Ridgewell, Managing Director of Empower Development who invites guests in to speak about topics of interest to those working in insurance. We'd love to hear your feedback or requests for future topics for us to discuss, get in touch with us at hello@empowerdevelopment.co.uk and find us on Instagram @empowerdevelopment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 19 Jul 2021 | Emma White, Liberty Specialty Markets | 00:30:43 | |
Listen to this Empower Talks episode for tips on transitioning from a grad scheme into a professional role and inspiration from someone who has been very proactive in their own development. Underwriter Emma White gives her advice on how to build and demonstrate your capabilities, and the opportunities she has undertaken to develop in her career at Liberty Specialty Markets. Get in touch with Emma for more advice on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-white-acii-b0641b92/ Empower Talks offers career insights and inspiration for insurance professionals. Conversations are hosted by Samantha Ridgewell, Managing Director of Empower Development who invites guests in to speak about topics of interest to those working in insurance. We'd love to hear your feedback or requests for future topics for us to discuss, get in touch with us at hello@empowerdevelopment.co.uk and find us on Instagram @empowerdevelopment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 19 Jul 2021 | Lara Pedley, Managing Director of ISC | 00:43:20 | |
In episode 2 of Empower Talks, we welcome Lara Pedley - Managing Director of ISC - where our discussion focuses particularly around networking. We look at the future of the industry and how networking can differ as you move throughout your career. ISC aims to accelerate the career progression of women and bring together female insurance talent. To find out more, you can visit their website here https://www.theinsurancesupperclub.com/. For further advice from Lara, contact her directly on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/search/results/all/?keywords=lara%20pedley&origin=GLOBAL_SEARCH_HEADER and check out ISC’s own podcast - The ISC Podcast. Empower Talks offers career insights and inspiration for insurance professionals. Conversations are hosted by Samantha Ridgewell, Managing Director of Empower Development who invites guests in to speak about topics of interest to those working in insurance. We'd love to hear your feedback or requests for future topics for us to discuss, get in touch with us at hello@empowerdevelopment.co.uk and find us on Instagram @empowerdevelopment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 29 Sep 2021 | Helen Gemmell - When to Have Courageous Career Conversations? | 00:21:19 | |
Helen Gemmell joins us for this episode of Empower Talks, which involves a discussion into careers and ambitions, whilst touching on her own career story. Currently working as the Casualty Portfolio Underwriter at Ki, Helen also shares some of her wisdom and creative outlooks on what you can do with your careers. This podcast will give an understanding and advice around fast progression in the industry and developing your career. For more advice and information from Helen, visit her LinkedIn here (5) Helen Gemmell | LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 20 Oct 2021 | Kelly Beaumont - Blending Your Career With a Side Hustle | 00:36:01 | |
This Empower Talks episode features Kelly Beaumont - Head of L&D at Hiscox and founder of Olive Avocado, a start-up organisation launched recently to support women’s health. Advice is shared to figure out what career path you want, and how to form the direction into your desired area of the insurance industry. Kelly also gives her tips on starting an independent business as a way to exert your passion without the pressure of it being a full-time business during the early stages.
For more information:
Olive Avocado - (link)
Kelly Bownan LinkedIn - (link) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 04 Nov 2021 | Chris Moore - Innovative Thinking & Insuring Airbnb | 00:54:33 | |
We invite Chris Moore on Episode 8 of Empower Talks, where we discuss the importance of innovative thinking and how to make the most of opportunities to develop your career path. Chris has some fantastic experience particularly around underwriting across the new sharing economy and unique products, and currently is the Head of ibott. We also highlight the benefits of using LinkedIn for exposure to networks and creating connections within the industry to draw on these for your future career paths. You can find more information about Chris and his current career endeavours on LinkedIn here (link). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 15 Dec 2021 | Erik Johnson - Inclusion at Lloyds | 00:41:16 | |
On this episode of Empower Talks we invite Erik Johnson, the Deputy Active Underwriter Syndicate 2288 at Victor Insurance Holdings. In addition to Erik’s impressive technical career, he has been central to many initiatives around the insurance industry supporting networking and inclusion. More recently, Erik co-founded inclusion at Lloyd’s, bringing together a diverse range of initiatives to support insurance professionals. Today we will discuss the initiatives Erik’s getting involved in, networking tips, and LinkedIn advice! You can find more information on Erik on his LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/erik-johnson-insurance/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 09 Mar 2022 | Hannah Mellalieu - Persevering & Navigating Your Career | 00:20:42 | |
Hannah Mellalieu joins us for this episode of Empower Talks. Hannah, Underwriting Assistant for Fine Art at HDI Specialty, admits she fell into insurance but soon developed a passion for her role and the company she works for. She explains to us what she did to land her dream role in a remote world, how to navigate your career path, and how she developed her knowledge of her chosen specialism. Hannah also tells us how Empower Development has helped her with her CII exams and about her next ‘life-changing’ qualification. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 07 Mar 2022 | Samantha Ridgewell - Launching Your Own Business | 00:49:58 | |
For this Empower Talks episode Samantha Ridgewell, Managing Director of Empower Development, takes the hot seat. Samantha takes us back to the beginning of Empower Development and what the drivers are behind the business and why what she does is so important to her. Samantha also shares her career journey and how she made the jump from HR to business owner with a young family, she shares her best pieces of advice to help you progress your career. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 03 Apr 2022 | Emma Ackers, Learning Specialist at Empower Development | 00:30:17 | |
This Empower Talks episode features our very own Emma Ackers – A Learning Specialist here at Empower Development. Emma will be talking to us about her journey into insurance, the various roles she has had within the industry and how she got into her current role with us. Emma will also be giving advice on how to gain exposure within your workplace and how to enhance your career. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 23 May 2022 | Caroline Wagstaff - Taking Insurance to the House of Lords | 00:42:40 | |
On this Empower Talks, we are joined by Caroline Wagstaff, CEO for the London Market Group. Caroline who has been in the financial services market for 25 years tells us about her experience working for the LMG, what she has learned over the last 12 months and how she handled addressing the House of Lords! Caroline shares the strategies she uses to tap into the young talent pool, the benefits of choosing insurance as a career path, and how we can all help to spread the word about insurance as a career destination. London Insurance Life (londoninsurancelife-lmg.com) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 29 May 2022 | Roger Oldham - Why London Markets Are People Markets | 01:10:36 | |
In this podcast, Roger Oldham, Managing Director at London Market Forums talks to us through his fascinating career, from his first job offer in insurance and moving to London from a regional office, through to why he founded London Market Forums (LMF) and how LMF is continuing to evolve since the pandemic. Roger is a true leader in the industry and this was recognised at the 2022 Market People Awards where Roger won an award for his 'outstanding contribution' to the market. If anyone is unfamiliar with the LMF and the work they do, we recommend checking out their website (www.lmforums.com) where you can sign up for their free membership and start attending some of their brilliant educational and networking events. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 26 Jun 2022 | Lydia Clarke - Gen Z in Insurance | 00:52:24 | |
In this podcast, Sam catches up with Lydia, a graduate at Allianz. Lydia gives us an insight into insurance careers from the perspective of someone applying for graduate roles in the market. They discuss the impressions employers can make during (and even before!) the recruitment process as well as the benefit of placement years to organisations and individuals alike. Finally, they talk about learning cultures and what they say when people ask them where they learned something they got from TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 11 Jul 2022 | Nick Kirk, Insurance CEO & Global Opportunities | 01:03:44 | |
In this podcast, we're delighted to be joined by Nick Kirk. Nick has lived and worked on three continents during his long and eventful Insurance career and now serves as a non-executive director for two insurance companies in London. During this conversation, Nick shares insights and advice from his experience moving from office junior to CEO (via a number of roles and countries!) as well as how to make it easier for the perfect career opportunity to find you as opposed to the other way around. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 24 Jul 2022 | Nick Dunlop, Managing Director at Willis Towers Watson | 00:49:51 | |
With 40 years in the market, Nick is a true industry veteran. In this podcast, Sam and Nick have a wide-ranging conversation covering topics such as the role of insurance as an enabler of businesses, how to forge a career in ESG and why the decline of paper bundles might have contributed to a rise in gym memberships for the city's brokers! Sam and Nick also discuss the Worshipful Company of Insurers (WCI). As incoming Master, Nick gives us an insight into what the WCI is, the work it does, its role in The City and the various perks of becoming a member. For more information about the WCI visit www.wci.org.uk. You can connect with Nick on LinkedIn here: www.linkedin.com/in/nick-dunlop-67656b12 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 03 Oct 2022 | Paolo Cuomo - Innovation and Change | 00:52:57 | |
Sam talks to Insurance Innovator Paolo Cuomo about his journey from management consultant to his role working with the Analytics & Advisory Team at Gallagher Re. Sam and Paolo first met at The Worshipful Company of Insurers (WCI) and discuss the philanthropic possibilities presented by the organisation, specifically Paolo’s association with iWIN – The insurance women's inclusivity network. Paolo shares his insights on the future of the London Markets and the importance, and challenges, of implementing innovative technology in the Insurance Market as a whole. RELATED LINKS You can get in touch with Paolo on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paolocuomo/ The Worshipful Company of Insurers: https://www.wci.org.uk/ iWIN – The insurance women's inclusivity network: https://www.iwin-wci.co.uk/ InsTech London: https://www.instech.co/ City Quantum Summit: http://www.robinsonhambro.com/city-quantum-summit Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 24 Oct 2022 | Yasmin Carter-Esdale - Embracing LinkedIn For Your Professional Brand | 01:02:17 | |
Sam talks to self-starter, Yasmin Carter-Esdale about their shared passion of engaging young talent and encouraging them into the Insurance profession. Yasmin entered insurance at the age of 17 and her journey from Motor Risk Call Centre to Development Underwriter at Hiscox (as well as CII Columnist, DEI Thought Contributor & Partnership’s lead at ican) has given her a unique insight into how companies can attract the next generation of insurance professionals and how best to develop them to reach their career potential. Sam talks to Yasmin about her recently co-authored report advocating mandatory qualifications for insurance brokers, as well as how she uses social media to build her brand across the insurance industry. Yasmin’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yasmincarter-esdale/ CII Flagship Talent Programme: https://www.cii.co.uk/new-generation-programme Startup Sherpas: https://startupsherpas.org/ Hugo @ Startup Sherpas: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hugopickfordwardle/ Networks: NGIN: https://www.nginlondon.com/ C.I.I.I.I.L.Y.M.C.: https://www.iilondon.co.uk/home/about-us/young-members Under 35s Reinsurance Group: https://www.under35s.com/ Marine U35s Insurance Group: https://www.marineu35s.co.uk/ The Insurance Cultural Awareness Network (ican): https://www.i-can.me/ Kiwis in Insurance: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12153857/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 08 Feb 2023 | Simon Evans - The Insurance War on Talent, Who's Winning? | 00:46:09 | |
Sam talks with talent and recruitment authority Simon Evans about the challenges of attracting and retaining talent to the insurance industry. Sam and Simon tackle the complex issue of the ‘War for talent’, looking at how and why it has impacted the industry, what is being done about it, and what can be done to bridge the current skills gap. Simon shares with Sam what he has learnt on his journey from the world of banking to Head of International Talent Acquisitions for AIG. He discusses the benefits of working in insurance over banking and provides valuable guidance for those who are considering embarking on a career in insurance. Whether you’re interested in interview technique, what companies are looking for in candidates, or how best to progress within your organisation, this episode has something for everyone.
Related links: Simon’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonnevans/ Springboard - Empower Development’s Networking Event https://empowerdevelopment.co.uk/young-professionals/#springboard Books recommended by Simon: ‘Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance’ by Angela Duckworth ‘Start With Why’ by Simon Sinek ‘The Infinite Game’ by Simon Sinek Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 15 Feb 2023 | Hayley Budd - Creating Innovation Opportunities | 00:54:11 | |
Sam talks with Hayley Budd about their time working together at Liberty and Hayley’s journey into the ‘clandestine world of innovation’. Hayley built her own niche career to follow her passion and shares how she created a movement and innovation community within her organisation alongside her day job. She discusses how she took the work she was doing ‘off the side of her desk’ into a role as a Business Analyst where she began moulding the job into what she wanted. After a decade working at the same company, Hayley tells Sam about her move into product innovation and the challenges she encountered being a new face in a completely different culture during a pandemic, and how she learnt the importance of social capital along the way. In this episode, Hayley addresses some of the key questions facing innovation in insurance, looking at: How we create the Insurance Company of the future? How we create new operating models? What does the underwriter of the future look like? Related Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hayleyrosebudd/ https://www.lloyds.com/news-and-insights/lloyds-lab Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 22 Feb 2023 | Claire Davey - Becoming a Cyber Expert & the PhD Journey | 00:44:28 | |
Sam talks with Claire Davey (aka Cyber Claire) about her move from the corporate world, back to academia. During this transition Claire founded her own business as a Cyber Security & Risk Management Specialist & Trainer and tells how she has managed to juggle a full time PhD with the demands of a full-time entrepreneurial business. Claire’s love of learning has seen her amass a host of qualifications including her ACII, Masters, CISSP and most recently, completing a PhD in the field of alcohol/sobriety/identity. Sam and Claire hare their thoughts on the drinking culture in the insurance industry, the relationship between alcohol and networking/socialising, and Claire’s decision to stop drinking. RELATED LINKS: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-g-davey/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cyberclaire/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 01 Mar 2023 | Deborah Margolis - Quiet Quitting - Should We? | 01:00:42 | |
On this episode of Empower Talks, recorded on 26th October 2022, Sam talks with Employment Lawyer and friend, Deborah Margolis about chess club and ‘quiet quitting’ (mostly ‘quiet quitting’ – sorry chess fans!). Throughout the chat Sam & Deborah find themselves looking at the topic from an assortment of angles, dissecting what they think motivates someone to decide to ‘quiet quit’, and then share their choice on TikTok. Sam, with her HR background, and Deborah from an employment law perspective, pose and consider a host of questions surrounding this highly emotive topic, including: Is it unique to Gen Z or has it been around for a long time? Does it stem from the individual, the manager, or the company culture? What to do if you encounter ‘quiet quitting’ in the workplace? RELATED LINKS: Sam’s ‘Quiet Quitting’ Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@empower.development/video/7151340496357559557 Deborah’s ‘Quiet Quitting’ article: https://hrnews.co.uk/quiet-quitting-when-does-acting-your-wage-cross-the-line-and-what-is-the-employment-risk/ The Diary Of A CEO, John Eckbert (Five Guys), Hiring the best people: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lGSZqhFFhoI Deborah’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahmargolis/ GQ|Littler LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gqlittler/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 15 Mar 2023 | Tosin Falope - DE&I in Insurance | 01:00:34 | |
Sam sits down with Tosin Falope, a Senior Training Consultant and the newest member of the Empower Development team, to discuss her career journey and her perspective on the insurance industry. With a background in fashion and data science, as well as a strong interest in psychology and DE&I, Tosin shares her first impressions of the industry, highlighting the diversity of its culture and the broad range of networks she has already encountered. Tosin also discusses her recent completion of a counselling skills course and her certification as a Mental Health First Aider. She expresses her eagerness to attend an upcoming course that will enable her to conduct SDI (Strength Deployment Inventory) courses on behalf of Empower Development. This leads to a candid discussion where Sam shares a very personal experience and how SDI has helped her gain insight into how she manages conflict and reflects on her behaviour during a particularly stressful period in her life. RELATED LINKS: The Diary Of A CEO – Professor Steve Peters: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G1hqsr5mkzA The Chimp Paradox by Professor Steve Peters: https://chimpmanagement.com/books-by-professor-steve-peters/the-chimp-paradox/ A Path through the Jungle by Professor Steve Peters: https://chimpmanagement.com/books-by-professor-steve-peters/a-path-through-the-jungle/ Empower Talks - Helen Gemmell: https://shows.acast.com/empower-talks/episodes/helen-gemmell-casualty-portfolio-underwriter-at-ki Empower Talks – Teni Tijani: Springboard Events: https://empowerdevelopment.co.uk/young-professionals/ Tosin’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tosin-falope/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 06 Apr 2023 | Samantha Ridgewell - Growing Your Own Business | 00:43:10 | |
This is a special edition of Empower Talks, featuring our Client Solutions Manager, Claire Shepherd, in the interviewer's seat as she chats with Sam about the latest news and updates from Empower Development. In this episode, Sam reflects on the company's most exciting successes since their last podcast 12 months ago and shares some hopes and goals for the future. Listeners can expect to hear Sam discuss the company's 5-year anniversary party, her trip to New York, TikTok, BIBA, and her recent front-page feature interview in The Journal, as well as much more. Don't miss out on this exclusive episode! RELATED LINKS: Springboard Networking Events: https://empowerdevelopment.co.uk/young-professionals/ Sam’s feature article in The Journal: https://thejournal.cii.co.uk/2023/03/02/interview-samantha-ridgewell TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@empower.development?lang=en Claire and Sam’s podcast 12 months ago: https://shows.acast.com/empower-talks/episodes/samantha-cockcroft-empower-developmenr Emma’s Podcast: Tosin’s Podcast: Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 03 Jul 2023 | Mike Burle - Head of Marine & Deputy Active Underwriter at Liberty Specialty Markets | 01:07:33 | |
Sam talks with Mike Burle, Head of Marine & Deputy Active Underwriter at Liberty Specialty Markets, in an engaging conversation that explores various aspects of the insurance industry. With 30 years of experience, Mike brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to the discussion. Beginning the conversation, Sam delves into Mike's journey and how he entered the insurance field. They uncover some of the milestones that led him to his current role, highlighting experiences that helped shaped his career. Sam and Mike delve into the qualities that define a ‘good boss’ in the insurance industry. Mike shares his perspective, emphasising the importance of a growth mindset and continuous personal development, which are vital for progressing in this rapidly evolving industry. Peering behind the curtains of a large corporate insurer, Mike offers valuable insights into the inner workings of such organisations. Mike unravels some of the intricacies and complexities of the industry, providing a unique perspective on navigating its challenges. Reflecting the digital age, Mike shares his chosen word of the year: "Visibility." He underscores the significance of maintaining an active online presence and how it can positively impact professional growth and opportunities within the insurance industry. Mike offers his opinion on the future of working in insurance and the future of Lloyds marketplace, providing a glimpse into the potential transformations and innovations that lie ahead. Drawing from his experience, Mike imparts invaluable advice on progressing and thriving in insurance careers. His wisdom and expertise serve as a valuable resource, providing practical strategies for professional growth and advancement in this dynamic industry. Links Podcasts mentioned: https://www.thevoiceofinsurance.com/ https://stevenbartlett.com/the-diary-of-a-ceo-podcast/ https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/ https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-learning-development-podcast/id1466927523 https://hbr.org/2018/01/podcast-women-at-work Other links mentioned that we hope you find interesting: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Chimp-Paradox-Management-Programme-Confidence/dp/009193558X https://www.insuranceinsider.com/ https://www.lloyds.com/news-and-insights/lloyds-lab Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 25 Jul 2023 | Joanna Hitchcock - 5 Promotions in 7 Years | 00:53:27 | |
Sam talks with Joanna Hitchcock, Underwriting Manager at AIG about her exceptional career path, marked by five promotions in seven years, her ventures in international roles, and her fearless approach to stepping out of her comfort zone. With less than a decade in the insurance industry, Joanna's rise to success is impressive. Uncover the key factors driving her achievements, from her unwavering determination to her passion for tackling challenges head-on. Sam talks to Joanna about her international relocations to Paris and Dubai, and the obstacles she faced along the way. Joanna talks about the experience and broader industry insights she gained during these periods and how she embraced and learned from the challenges presented by new cultural environments. Joanna Hitchcock's journey serves as an inspiration, showcasing the power of resilience, adaptability, and embracing opportunities. Listen to this episode to gain invaluable insights for your own career development and growth. Joanna’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-hitchcock-bsc-hons-acii-203b38153/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 25 Aug 2023 | Guy Munnoch - Rising through the Ranks and Redefining Roles | 01:09:32 | |
Sam talks with Guy Munnoch, Managing Director of Rupert Morgan, about his exceptional career trajectory, shaped by 21-year milestones, moving from the British Army to the insurance world and beyond. With over four decades of diverse experiences, Guy's journey is nothing short of impressive. Delving into the early stages of his career, Guy underscores the importance of the lessons he learned in his 21 years with Army. Then, he elaborates on his shift to the insurance sector, detailing the hurdles he faced, his strategies to overcome them, and his rise to CEO. His responsibilities at Zurich resulted in an international assignment to South Africa where he reported directly to the royal family. Throughout his insurance journey, he gained profound industry insights and experienced significant transformations. Currently, Guy is navigating his third major career phase, undertaking diverse roles and confronting varied challenges. This phase has seen him assist retirees in sculpting gratifying retirement plans, assume Non-Executive Director positions, and even achieve a World Record! Guy Munnoch's story is a testament to adaptability and seizing opportunities. From the Army's disciplined environments to the dynamic world of insurance, he faced challenges head-on, reflecting on the psychological adjustments required at each stage. Enjoy this episode and discover the richness of Guy's journey, offering invaluable lessons for career navigation and personal growth. Links
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 22 Sep 2023 | Felicity & Megan - Breaking Insurance Stereotypes | 01:00:34 | |
Sam sits down with Megan and Felicity, both participants in the Zurich graduate scheme, who are also the creative minds behind the TikTok page ‘The Life Of A Grad’. With over 10,000 likes, the duo aims to challenge prevailing insurance stereotypes and promote the potential of insurance careers to young professionals. Through ‘The Life Of A Grad’, they also document their own career journey, offering a personal touch to their advocacy for the insurance sector.
They share their experiences surrounding their growing TikTok page, discussing the steps they took outside their comfort zones to generate content, and the learning curve involved in managing the account.
Addressing the branding issue insurance encounters with young students, Sam, Megan, and Felicity delve into possible solutions to increase awareness. They highlight the merits of working in insurance and the array of departments available, suggesting a broad scope of opportunities for everyone.
Through their TikTok platform, Megan and Felicity provide a fresh perspective on insurance careers, offering insights to young professionals on the diverse career options in the industry. This episode highlights their effort to use modern digital platforms as a bridge to connect with the traditional insurance sector, aiming to make insurance careers more accessible and appealing to a younger audience. Links: Life Of A Grad - TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifeofagrad Apprentice Life – TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@apprentice.life
Zurich Graduate Schemes: https://www.zurich.co.uk/careers/graduate-schemes Zurich Internships: https://www.zurich.co.uk/careers/internships
Felicity Irvine – LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/felicity-irvine-8b4449158/?originalSubdomain=uk Megan Jenkins – LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-jenkins-4601741b7/?originalSubdomain=uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 05 Oct 2023 | Beth Amaro - Parental Leave, Return to Work with Confidence | 01:02:45 | |
In this episode, Sam chats with Beth Amaro, an experienced HR professional from the insurance sector. Beth spent seven years in Bermuda before an opportunity led her to London to progress her career in the insurance sector. Until recently, Beth worked as Head of HR at Fidelis. She has now started her own independent consultancy firm, advising companies on their HR needs. This shift has led to an interesting collaboration with Sam. Sam and Beth discuss her career in HR, offering advice on progression. A key topic is their Leto programme, named after the goddess of motherhood and launching in October 2023. The programme is designed to support women and parents returning to work after maternity or paternity leave. Beth shares her personal experience of balancing career aspirations with motherhood and talks about the challenges many face when returning to the workforce. Listen in to learn more about the Leto initiative and gain insights from Beth's journey in the insurance and HR sectors. LINKS: Beth's Website: www.bethamaroconsulting.co.uk Beth's LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com › beth-amaro-0a19779 More info on Leto: https://empowerdevelopment.co.uk/product/leto/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 10 Nov 2023 | Amy Brettell - From Grad to M.D. (Zurich Municipal) | 00:57:07 | |
In this episode, Amy Brettell shares her unconventional career journey with Sam. Having started as an Actuary within Zurich's graduate program, Amy moved across various roles within the organisation, including the mysterious Chief of Staff position, Head of Customer in UK Claims Role, and lead the digital transformation in claims at Zurich. Amy has recently stepped into her dream job as Managing Director at Zurich Municipal. Sam and Amy discuss her early introduction to the actuarial field, a path she chose after discovering its possibilities through a career survey at the age of 14, leading her to step into the profession by the age of 21. The conversation offers insights into effective career management, the importance of venturing out of one's comfort zone, initiating bold discussions on career progression, and the active pursuit of professional opportunities. LINKS: Amy's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amybrettell/ Zurich Grad Scheme: https://www.zurich.co.uk/careers/graduate-schemes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 20 Nov 2023 | Grace Maxted FCII - In the Spotlight | 01:14:38 | |
Sam talks to Grace Maxted FCII, a pivotal associate and key creative force at Empower Development. Grace's significant impact is particularly evident in our online courses, yet her influence extends much further.
Sam and Grace discuss her unique career, intertwining insurance and theatre, and reminisce about their initial collaborations at Empower Development. Additionally, they highlight some of Grace's notable career moments, revealing the depth of her professional journey.
Grace, a standout conversationalist, skilfully blends wisdom, compelling facts, and a variety of engaging stories. Join us in this episode to explore Grace's unique path and learn how important she is to the Empower Development team.
Recorded in May 2023. Fact check: The Tom Hanks film Grace is referring to is ‘Bridge of Spies’.
Links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grace-maxted-fcii-2702a1a4/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 27 Nov 2023 | Pritesh Thakrar - 10 Lessons from a Decade in Insurance | 00:55:11 | |
In this episode, Sam talks with Pritesh Thakrar, a Portfolio Analyst at Inver Re. Their conversation explores Pritesh's career journey from medicinal chemistry to his current role in insurance, including his involvement in the 'New Gen Project' initiative, which focused on creating internships for autistic individuals. They also reflect on the evolution of his career and how his diverse experiences across various organisational cultures have shaped his professional path.
Pritesh has authored an article titled '10 Lessons from a Decade in Insurance'. During the episode, Sam and Pritesh examine each of these lessons in turn, offering valuable insights into both personal and professional development that extend beyond the confines of the insurance industry.
The episode underscores the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and embracing new challenges. Pritesh's insights and advice are especially valuable for those either beginning or looking to progress in the insurance sector, rendering this episode an informative and practical guide for career growth.
Links: Link to Pritesh's article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/10-lessons-from-decade-insurance-pritesh-thakrar
Pritesh's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pritesh-thakrar-67611983/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 04 Dec 2023 | Lorraine Harfitt - CEO at Asta, Solvency II & Lloyd's of London | 01:08:04 | |
In this episode, Sam chats with Lorraine Harfitt, CEO at Asta, about her diverse career journey in the insurance industry. Lorraine shares her path from Lloyd's of London to becoming CEO at Asta, discussing her roles at Lloyd's, including insights into her involvement in the Solvency II work stream. Lorraine talks about the challenges of her career, the importance of adaptability, and the role of a supportive network. She also talks about succession planning, leadership development, and the responsibilities of a CEO. Tune in to hear Lorraine's journey through the insurance sector, providing lessons on career progression, leadership, and navigating the complexities of the industry. Links Lorraine's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraine-harfitt-6ab60817/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 18 Dec 2023 | Alina Schatten (née Jipa) - Don’t Wait For Opportunities, Create Them | 00:49:41 | |
In this episode of Empower Talks, Sam talks to Alina Schatten (née Jipa), who, at the time of recording was Chief of Staff to the CEO, but has recently accepted the position of Integration Director at RSA UK&I. Sam and Alina discuss her career in the insurance industry, which is a compelling example of adaptability, strategic career advancement, and the value of lifelong learning. Beginning her journey with a rotational graduate programme at Hiscox, Alina seamlessly navigated through various roles, emphasising her versatility. Her proactive approach, notably reaching out to RSA's CEO, catapulted her into the influential role of Chief of Staff. Here, she demonstrates her expertise in strategic planning, project management, and supporting an executive team. Education plays a pivotal role in Alina’s career, highlighted by her pursuit of a business and management degree and an MBA. Her advocacy for continuous professional development, especially the ACII qualification, mirrors her commitment to applying academic knowledge in real-world scenarios. Alina's dedication extends beyond personal career growth to mentoring and nurturing new talent in the insurance industry. Her research on early career programmes and retention strategies underlines her commitment to fostering the next generation of professionals. Alina's journey and insights, shared with Sam, offer valuable lessons in navigating the complex yet rewarding landscape of the insurance industry. Alina's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alina-jipa-schatten/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 08 Jan 2024 | Phill Bratt - Next Generation Partner in The Legal 500 | 01:38:19 | |
Sam talks to Phill Bratt, Partner at Keoghs London, about his specialisation in catastrophic personal injury law and his role in defending high-value personal injury claims. The episode addresses the evolving nature of legal careers, focusing on the importance of personal relationships and professional exposure. Phill provides key insights into the Ogden tables, emphasising their critical role in calculating future losses in high-value personal injury claims, particularly relevant for insurers and reinsurers. Phill shares how he discovered he had dyslexia, and he reflects on how the diagnosis has helped him in his working life, and provides invaluable career advice, stressing the importance of perseverance and seizing opportunities. His experiences and insights offer invaluable guidance for professionals navigating the dynamic and complex world of the legal profession. Drawing from his legal expertise, Phill hosts the 'London Insurance Lawyer Unbound,' podcast, and has started sharing his insights on his TikTok account (links to both are below). LINKS: London Insurance Lawyer Podcast: https://londoninsurancelawyer.com/ Phill's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phillbratt/ Phill's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@londoninsurancelawyer Phill's Insta: https://www.instagram.com/londoninsurancelawyer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 13 May 2024 | Bamishe Alao - BIBA Young Broker of the Year (Finalist) | 01:03:35 | |
Sam talks with Bamishe Alao, an emerging leader in the insurance industry, about her strategies for attracting graduates to the field. Starting her career on the WTW CRB graduate programme, Bamishe reflects on the initial challenges she faced, the balance of priorities, and the evolution of her networking skills. She credits much of her early success to mentorship and discusses the substantial benefits of enrolling in mentoring programs. In their conversation, Bamishe highlights the pivotal role of LinkedIn in maintaining visibility and connections within the industry. Both Sam and Bamishe, as members of the Worshipful Company of Insurers (WCI), delve into the organisation’s structure, membership benefits, and networking opportunities that have been instrumental in their careers. Looking forward, Bamishe shares an overview of her five-year plan, which includes achieving her ACII designation and advancing from Associate to Senior Associate in her specialised field of Directors and Officers Liability (D&O). She offers insightful advice on identifying and excelling in one's chosen class of business. The discussion also explores the current state and future of the insurance industry, focusing on DE&I initiatives, retention challenges, and the shifting demographics at leadership levels. Finally, Bamishe and Sam discuss the impactful roles of reverse mentoring, traditional mentoring, and sponsorship in fostering career development. Directly resulting from the podcast, Sam has started an anonymous campaign to promote salaries in the industry. Results so far can be found here: TikTok Campaign - Insurance salaries Also in case you missed it, in 2023, Sam & Bamishe appeared together on Insure TV. Watch here: Sam & Bamishe talk BIBA on InsureTV LINKS: Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 16 Dec 2024 | Ethan Godlieb, BIBA Young Broker of the Year 2024 | 01:00:47 | |
Sam talks with Ethan Godlieb, Cyber & Tech E&O Broker at Aon and BIBA Young Broker of the Year, about his journey into the insurance industry and his career progression. Beginning his career on Aon’s apprenticeship programme, Ethan reflects on starting in a regional office, the importance of building relationships, and the deliberate steps he took to transition into the London market. He shares invaluable advice on securing secondments, building confidence, and advancing his career. Ethan shares how he was instrumental in starting an apprenticeship network (Asset), which later merged into NGIN (Next Generation Insurance Network), creating opportunities for apprentices across the industry. He recounts key milestones in his career, including his shift from apprenticeship to broking management and eventually specialising in cyber insurance. Throughout the conversation, Ethan offers practical advice on navigating career goals, seizing opportunities, and balancing day-to-day responsibilities with extracurricular contributions. Reflecting on his experience attending the BIBA conference, Ethan discusses the networking opportunities, insights from industry-leading speakers, and the benefits of connecting with peers in a social and professional setting. He also shares the process behind winning the Young Broker of the Year award, highlighting how resilience and determination have shaped his career. To close, Ethan provides tips on standing out to judges when applying for industry awards, stressing the importance of metrics, testimonials, and showcasing impact. He also offers invaluable career advice, emphasising integrity, building trust, and setting and adapting career goals. He encourages listeners to embrace mentorship and networking, pursue professional development, and always seek opportunities to grow. Links: Your Insurance Starter Kit - it’s free, you just need to setup a Teachable login Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||