Did you pick up any new habits or skills in the last 2 years that continue into our ‘normal’ life now?
I made a conscious effort to lead a healthier lifestyle and began to work out on a daily basis, either go for a run, walk or yoga. This has become a normal part of my routine now and I have seen and felt a change to my overall health as a result.
How did you get into insurance?
This was a conscious choice. After spending 20+ years of my career working in industry I took a leap of faith and tried something new, which happened to be in the insurance world.
What is your main priority at the moment?
To stay well, and to support both of my daughters with their further education and studies.
Reality TV, do you love it or hate it? And why?
Not a fan! I may extend my viewing to the likes of First Dates or I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here. Reality TV appears to have created an unrealistic reflection of the society we live in today and I struggle to take any pleasure in that.
What was your last Google search?
Best musical theatre songs. One of my daughters is competing in a national dance competition and we need an idea for a new routine.
Do you have a hidden talent or passion?
No hidden talents that I know of, but I do love yoga practice and I am learning more about how it can keep both the body and mind well.
What change would you like to see in the insurance industry/RSA in the next 3 years?
I would love to see an increasing number of younger people being encouraged to enter the insurance industry and for RSA to fully embrace the new apprenticeship scheme. I think there should be more opportunity for mature employees to be involved in their succession planning and upskilling of younger employees as we are seeing more people leave employment prematurely so are at risk of losing key skill sets that we need to pass on before they are lost forever.
How is insurance making the world a better place?
Helping customers when they need the insurer the most. There can often be a lot of trauma associated with a claim and I think insurers are getting better at recognising that there are more and more vulnerable customers who need help. It’s within our hands to support them at often their most distressing moments.
What did you not expect about working in the insurance industry?
This sounds terrible but I wasn’t expecting it to be so archaic. I really appreciate the longevity the industry has as a whole, but I think there is some catching up to do.
What are your 3 top tips for maintaining a healthy work life balance?
Stretch and move every day – even if it's only for 10-15 minutes.
Stay hydrated – drink lots of water.
Work with your manager if your workload is becoming an issue – there will never be enough hours in the day so it’s about prioritising and agreeing realistic expectations for both ourselves and others.
What is your best travel memory?
I had one of the best family holidays to Mexico in the summer of 2019 and this always brings back happy memories.
What new skill would you most like to learn?
I would love to pick up some new creative skills – I used to love art and have turned my hand to learn how to crochet during the pandemic. I would also like to have a go at SUP – stand-up paddle boarding and I’m due to go on a trail running weekend in October which I’m looking forward to.
Who would you want to play you in a movie of your life?
Carey Mulligan or Margot Robbie spring to mind, both excellent actresses. From the golden era maybe someone like Vivienne Leigh or Doris Day for the comedy factor, she might be more apt. Woofits!
Tell us a joke/the last time I belly-laughed was:
No jokes but Micky Flanagan never fails to make me laugh out loud even if his material is ‘laddish’ Brit culture.
What would you say to someone considering a career in insurance?
Don’t consider it to be boring – there are lots of different avenues to explore within insurance, and there really is something for everyone.
I am happiest when…
I am at home, things are at peace and I can snuggle up with my two mini Schnauzers on the settee.
Career highlight to date is?
Achieving my Chartered status with IOSH. It wasn’t easy at the time as I was single arenting two young children and working full time.
What would be your ideal dinner party menu?
Gosh, can it be a mixture of Greek, Italian, Mexican, Indian, Asian and English cuisine? I love lots of different food!
What are you currently binge-watching/listening/reading?
Been catching up on Cobra Kai as Season 5 started in early September. For anyone who can remember the original Karate Kid in the 80’s this programme has resurrected many of the original film cast and tells a story of how their lives have moved on and now interlink through karate – total cheese.
I'm also reading ‘The Giver of Stars’ by Jojo Moyes – it has film written all over it.