IN the My Kind of Job spotlight this week is Marc Rice from Willis Insurance and Risk Management
What's your job?
Client account executive
How did you get there?
I started working for an insurance broker in 2010, with a focus on car and home insurance. I then moved to another broker in 2014 to ‘cut my teeth’ in commercial insurance. After four years there, I was lucky enough to secure a position at Willis Insurance and Risk Management.
Do you have a typical working day?
No – that is the best part of the job.My role involves dealing with a number of different clients and their insurance needs on a day to day basis. That said, there is a great deal of variety to this job role. I also get to work alongside businesses from various industries, and by doing so, I am able to learn about that business, so that we can provide them with a high-quality service – whether that be through our employment services division or through a comprehensive, tailored, risk management or insurance solution.
What qualifications do you have?
I have an honours degree in Politics from Northumbria University, and I am certified by the Chartered Insurance Institute. I am currently studying towards my advanced diploma and hope to have achieved Chartered Insurance Broker status by the end of this month. With the support of the team at Willis Insurance and risk management, I am confident I will be able to achieve this.
What other skills do you need in your role?
Being a ‘people person’ is a must, along with integrity, honestly and openness. Vast knowledge of the insurance landscape is also a necessity.
What's the best thing about your job?
That no two days are the same. The insurance and risk management landscape within Northern Ireland is totally unique in comparison to the rest of the UK, and therefore as a local broker, we have a thorough understanding of how companies operate here, and what their specific needs and requirements are when it comes to following certain policies and procedures. Being given the opportunity to get to meet new people and see how these businesses work has been very beneficial.
And the worst?
Nothing springs to mind, I love it, and I am looking forward to seeing where my career progresses.
What do you think are the greatest challenges/pressures of the job?
The ability to secure a comprehensive insurance policy that covers a company’s exposure to risk, that will kick in when they are at their most vulnerable, is a challenge at times. Getting it right the first time is a must.
What did you want to be when you were at school?
An airline pilot.
What advice would you give someone considering a career in your profession?
I would advise that if someone is considering this profession they give serious consideration to getting qualified as soon as possible after leaving school or university.
What's the most common question people ask when they find out what you do?
Why is car insurance so dear?
How do you like to relax outside work?
Spending as much time as possible with my wife and three-year-old daughter
