Thomas is a key account developer at Allianz. He studied business economics at Liverpool University before joining the company's corporate management scheme in September 2003.
What does an account developer do?
I help manage relationships with our affinity partners. These are brand names such as Dixons, the Telegraph and Royal British Legions, with whom we work to provide insurance products under their brands. My role is about attracting new partners, retaining existing partners and ensuring that their agreement with us is profitable.
I've had four placements with the company. As a graduate trainee I've spent time in commercial lines underwriting (working out the risks and premiums attached to insuring commercial property and fleets), time in the change department of the claims division and in the engineering insurance division.
What attracted you to a career in insurance?
I was interested in a career in financial services, and the insurance sector stood out. I was impressed by its scale and variety. It also seemed to be an area that had been overlooked by many university students. The concept of taking risks for a living is an exciting prospect, and that's what insurers do every day – taking educated risks about what to insure and at what price.
What do you think makes a successful insurance graduate?
There's been a greater 'specificity' within the insurance sector, meaning that insurers, brokers and even re-insurers in many cases are looking for more specific skill sets. Insurers are increasingly looking for people with financial skills and another skill, such as e-marketing or statistics.
Therefore don't be put off by a job title, look at the job description and what it involves and match it against your skills (and, importantly, against whether you'd enjoy doing it). If you've done a joint honours degree, great; if not, look at the relevant modules you've done and sell these to any potential employer.
Thomas' tips
- The quality of the person matters more than the degree subject. People in this industry have degrees in everything from history and geography to maths and economics.
- Do your research about which company you want to join. Many companies have excellent graduate schemes, although the company brand name may not be as high as its profile.
- There is a variety of roles in the insurance industry. Find a scheme that gives you the chance to experience and consider them all.
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