Career Path - Path to success: Contingency Underwriter.

(From Post Magazine)

Who did you start your insurance career with and what did you learn from that employer? I graduated from Loughborough University in 1994 and was taken on by ME Warrington Syndicate 1069 as its graduate trainee in October of that year. Having completed a physics degree, insurance was new to me but the position gave me an introduction to the market and a great base knowledge because I was rotated through all its departments.

How did you start your career in contingency underwriting? After 18 months with various departments, I was offered the position of underwriting assistant on the contingency account. I held this position for 12 months when the then underwriter decided to leave and I was promoted.

What qualifications and skills would you say are necessary to succeed as a contingency underwriter? With contingency you can be dealing with anything from the cancellation of a small garden party to that of a major sporting event. It is, therefore, imperative to be flexible, and having a good grasp of current affairs is essential. Like most professions, the more qualifications you have the better placed you probably are, so studying for the ACII qualification will give you a better understanding of the insurance industry as a whole. Of course, common sense is a must.

What does your average day involve - what time do you start and finish?

How often do you work outside the office? I get into the office at 8.30am and, unless I have meetings, spend my time reviewing quotes and risks written the previous day. At 11am I head over to Lloyd's and spend the rest of the day underwriting at the box until around 5pm. Following this, I return to the office to tie-up the day's work. My job gives me a good work-life balance as I do not ...