Jon Dye, claims director, Allianz Insurance plc

Why financial services?

I was looking for a business career that would allow me to use some of the skills and knowledge I had acquired while studying law. I was impressed with the structured development programmes on offer in the insurance industry so it seemed a logical choice. Looking back, I have been involved in international assignments, which have brought people together from around the world. It has been fascinating to see how different approaches in different markets and jurisdictions could be adapted to generate a competitive advantage in very different environments.

'Don’t waste time with an employer that doesn’t continue to offer you a clear development path.'

The intellectual challenge and the economic significance of the industry is not widely understood. The complexities of the issues we face make this a fast-changing and stimulating place to work. Add to that the leadership challenge, the need to deliver satisfaction to ever-more demanding customers and the constant requirement to produce the right level of return for the shareholder, and you have a fascinating balance of competing priorities to deal with.

The biggest influence on my career

I was lucky to have a series of guides and mentors during the early years of my career. Their principal influence was to keep me moving forward as quickly as possible. As soon as I had proved I could do one job it was on to the next. This encouragement to stretch myself really helped to shape my career.

Key skills and advice for graduates

Don’t waste time with an employer that doesn’t continue to offer you a clear development path. I’ve enjoyed pretty much everything that I’ve done within the industry and there are growing numbers of people who have moved to very senior positions in a short time – it is possible for you to really make an impact.