How did you come to choose a career in re/insurance?

Prior to obtaining my first position in the industry, I had limited knowledge of what re/insurance was. My sister, one of my biggest supporters, recommended I look into this career path and, at 17, I secured my first internship with Aon, the company where she was a broker at the time.

My passion for re/insurance took off from there and throughout my time at university, I committed myself to developing a holistic understanding of the market by obtaining internships at a variety of different companies, including Fidelis, Kroll Bond Rating Agency (KBRA) and Hamilton Re.

At each company, I learned something different—from modelling, credit rating, and claims management to underwriting, broking and operations. I went that extra step further to understand more about insurance-linked securities, a valuable market in Bermuda, as well as what is required to launch a new re/insurance company.

The re/insurance industry is like an orchestra: each role is an instrument, and the orchestra cannot perform to its fullest extent without each instrument contributing. Each company and department need to recognise the importance of everyone’s parts, which is why I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to work in such a diverse range of roles

What makes the re/insurance industry attractive to young professionals?

The industry is constantly evolving and there is always something new to explore, which piques the interest of young professionals. Technological advancements, for example, create new loss exposures, opening protection gaps and creating a range of opportunities for the sector.

My generation is very invested in developing their skillsets to be attractive to the working world, and this industry allows us to do that.

The re/insurance industry is one of the main contributors to the Bermudian economy and it is very rewarding to be a part of it. To be able to give back to the community, while working in an incredibly innovative role, is very satisfying.

Within this industry there are many moving parts. Should underwriting and broking prove not to be of interest, there are numerous other avenues to explore. Operations, legal and claims roles, among others, are all available in most re/insurance companies. There is no one-size-fits-all role, and the sector has the scope for a range of interests.

What are the opportunities and challenges you’ve faced?

When I began my career in the industry, I got a scholarship from the Bermuda Foundation for Insurance Studies (BFIS), an organisation led by re/insurance industry leaders in Bermuda. BFIS offered me extensive support through mentoring and educational programmes, as well as access to networking events. I have since met various well-known and knowledgeable industry executives who have provided me with invaluable career advice and opportunities.

Because of the industry’s fast-paced and ever-changing nature, it can be challenging to keep up with every development, but this is a challenge I thoroughly enjoy. I find myself eager to learn more and develop my understanding of global events and new technologies because they present the re/insurance market with the opportunity to be innovative.

To succeed in this industry, you must be committed to putting the time and work into developing your knowledge base.

What differences does your generation bring to the industry?

My generation definitely has an advantage from a technology perspective because we grew up alongside its development. Being able to fully understand and use technology is mandatory, especially as the re/insurance industry continues to modernise. COVID-19 accelerated this progress as technology became a necessity, particularly in the face of remote working.

However, having not experienced the market run on face-to-face contact and situational judgement, our generation could bring a new perspective; we view this new environment as an opportunity, not an obstacle.

Data and risk analytics are becoming cornerstones in our industry and we have seen significant and exciting developments. Having the ability to adapt to the latest data and technology updates is critical to delivering what is needed in the modern world.

With this, it is likely we will see a requirement for a high level of computer literacy which may become basic coding skills in the future. Not being intimidated by this adds significant value to a company.

What are your career goals?

My immediate goal is to acquire as much knowledge as I can. Re/insurance underwriting is my passion and it’s a field in which I want to become a dependable leader and someone who my peers look to for advice. This will require a comprehensive understanding of the sector and every day I work on my own development.

I am an extremely social person and I’m in my element when working collaboratively with people. In our industry, relationships are key; without them the knowledge is futile. With my thirst for learning and convivial nature, my long-term goal is to achieve the position of CUO, where I can fully use my expertise and work with a wide variety of people.

Finally, throughout my career it will always be very important for me to give back to the next generation. My mentors were pivotal to my development, and I want to do the same.

If you had chosen a different career, what would it have been?

I love the ocean, and one of my favourite things to do is fish. I would find a way to make a career out of this passion, such as marine research or tiger shark tagging. There will always be a new discovery to be made as there is a vast amount of unexplored ocean.

If money were no object, an opportunity to learn about and witness amazing marine life is something I would pursue.

Alternatively, I would have studied medicine, specifically psychiatry. I love people and understanding why they think and act the way they do is fascinating. Treating people with dignity and respect is important to me in any walk of life, and this attribute is fundamental as a psychiatrist working with vulnerable patients.

Fundamentally, a career that involves social interaction combined with scientific understanding and integrity is a good fit for me.