Age: 28

Role: Assistant Underwriter (Property), Ironshore Insurance Ltd.

What is your job? Subsequent to my previous role, beginning with the processing of submissions as an Underwriting Assistant, I gradually broadened my understanding of the insurance operations. Currently, along with management, I am responsible for ensuring that our underwriting support team meets the core objectives of our day to day business, which consists of approving insurance contracts and/or amendments to contracts (endorsements). In addition to this, I produce statistical reporting information for senior management. Given the pace at which the company has grown, I have been extremely fortunate to have gained an invaluable learning experience, coupled with a desire to tackle and learn new things daily.

What is your favourite part of the job? I enjoy being able to work with a team of witty yet brilliant underwriters, who permit me the opportunity to independently make sound underwriting decisions on a small, yet important book of business. This allows me the flexibility to learn and in my opinion, is the most exciting part of the job. The real joy however, comes from resolving difficult issues, fostering healthy relationships with brokers, as well as gaining hands-on experience. I am able to get involved in many areas of the underwriting operations, with each day bringing a new challenge.

What is your least favourite part of the job? The least favourite part of my job is not having multiple pairs of hands during busy periods, to sign hundreds of pages of contract documentation whilst simultaneously meeting the needs of our partnered brokers, who are reliant upon our speed to get the documentation completed and returned to them.

What is your most interesting experience at work? In 2008, I spent a week shadowing brokers from four different broking houses in London, spending most of my time at Lloyd’s. The trip broadened my understanding of the insurance industry, particularly in the area of broking. It was enlightening and informative to mediate between a buyer and a seller. The highlight of this learning excursion however, began the Saturday that I arrived. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity, along with it being my first time in London. As it was the beginning of the Barclays Premiership football season, one of my former senior underwriters presented me with a pass to the Emirates Stadium. Up until this particular day, I hadn’t followed English football and decided to dress to impress with a borrowed Theo Walcott jersey and knapsack to match (I think it was more for protection, so that I didn’t stand out like a sore thumb) but nevertheless, I observed the brutal hammering that Arsenal gave to Newcastle United in a crushing win of 3-1. I thoroughly enjoyed the live atmosphere. Needless to say, it was a riveting experience and I’ve been a major fan ever since.

What would you be doing otherwise? Becoming a successful businesswoman has always been a childhood dream of mine. I believe such a career can be rewarding both professionally and personally, as it fosters networking and social opportunities with people worldwide. If I were independently wealthy, I’d spend my time travelling; consider a career in writing, fashion/design or photography, and living my life like it’s golden.