Marsh McLennan |
Advice featuring Marsh McLennan
Meet Amin, Reinsurance Graduate Broker
“I am Amin, I studied Architecture at the University of Edinburgh and it was until my third year when I realised that I wanted to get into the finance sector. This is due to my personal interests and hobbies.
My journey at Guy Carpenter started in September 2022, and so far, it’s been a great one. I am a Reinsurance Graduate Broker working within Global Specialties for the US Programme/Mortgage team. As a graduate I get the opportunity to rotate around different divisions in reinsurance, which helps me gain a wider market exposure!
This company stood out to me as it has a large global footprint with incredible clients. What I enjoy the most about Guy Carpenter and Marsh McLennan, is that growth is key, both professionally and personally.
The culture in Guy Carpenter has amazed me, this industry is all about networking and building relationships, which means you’re not at your desk the whole day! You’re expected to have fun whilst working! If you’re looking for that work life balance, then you’ve found the right company.
One of my biggest pieces of advice for anyone joining this industry is to be yourself! You’re not expected to have a background in finance or insurance before applying, this role is for anyone and for you too!”
Meet Zara, Guy Carpenter Graduate Scheme
- My name is Zara Miah and I am a graduate that joined in September 2022. I studied Financial Economics at Middlesex University and developed an interest in the insurance industry during an internship I had before I started university. I am currently in my first rotation and have almost completed my Cert CII. I am currently in FAC International Property & Terrorism.
- One of the reasons Guy Carpenter stood out to me as employee reviews were extremely positive. I felt confident that I was applying to a company that would look after me and care about my development as I launch my career. I wanted to join a company that has a global reach and would not limit my growth. The rotational graduate scheme heavily encouraged me to join as I get the benefit of trying different teams before I make a decision. I was also kick-start my career with my professional qualifications
- I have found my role very interesting as I have the opportunity to gain insight into different regions, and understand their similarities and differences. The market is constantly changing, more so than ever. I feel I have learned so much in less than 4 months but I know I have so much more to learn. It is challenging at times to understand the language and processes, but it is slowly getting easier. I am able to be more involved and already have more responsibilities.
- The culture at Guy Carpenter has impressed me the most. The collaborative culture makes you feel welcome to ask questions to your own team members and even set up meetings with others to learn about their role. There is a real sense of community within the graduates, as well as throughout the whole company. You will really get the feeling that there is an entire community that want to see you succeed and grow. I feel this is true from the support I have from my graduate manager, rotational manager, the early careers team, and of course my colleagues.
- In my role, I enjoy the exposure to markets the most. This includes meeting underwriters and forming relationships, including face to face at Lloyd’s of London. By attending Lloyd’s with a broker, I get first-hand view of how negotiations can happen. This is important for my own development as I will soon be doing the same on my own. I also enjoy understanding different countries and their needs, as it gives me an opportunity to be up to date with current events.
- My advice for anyone applying would be to highlight your skills any opportunity you get, and do not forget about your soft skills. Be open to learning. Be confident in who you are and be true to yourself. Diversity of thought is extremely valuable in any industry! You do not need a financial background to join this industry so do not let that discourage you.
Meet Hannah, Guy Carpenter Graduate Scheme
Tell us a bit about yourself and your journey so far with Guy Carpenter?
After originally planning to go into the legal field, I attained my A-levels and went on study Law at Queen Mary University of London. However, I soon discovered the world of (re)insurance and knew that this was the perfect career for me. I applied to the Guy Carpenter graduate scheme and started in January 2021, where I was placed into Global Specialties and rotated around key lines of business. These rotations included marine, non-marine, trade credit and aviation. Following the graduate scheme I progressed full-time into the aviation and aerospace broking team. I also have the opportunity to work on bloodstock business.
What stood out about Guy Carpenter?
I was initially drawn to Guy Carpenter because of its strong reputation within the industry as being one of the best broking houses. This meant that I could be involved in global, high-quality and exciting work. After attending the assessment centre, the culture at Guy Carpenter was a real stand-out. Every colleague I met was extremely welcoming and supportive, which left me feeling valued and as though I fitted in well.
How have you found your role?
My role has been a perfect blend of variety, challenge and opportunity. There are many different things you can get involved in and you are constantly learning. The social nature of the re(insurance) market makes this role even more rewarding.
What is the culture like at Guy Carpenter?
The culture is supportive and ambitious. Whenever you have a question colleagues will always have time for you, whether in a minute or a day they are committed to helping you learn and grow. It is inspiring to work with people who see the value in bringing the younger generation into the industry. There is a keenness to give you as much exposure as possible within meetings and in-front of clients to help you excel in your career.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
My favourite part about my role is how much importance is placed on face-to-face interaction and relationships. Whether it’s being able to present to a client or meeting with an underwriter to negotiate a renewal, you are rarely at your desk. The relationships we build form real friendships and this is something you don’t find in every industry.
What would be your biggest piece of advice for someone interested in applying?
Don’t let the fact that you may not know a lot about insurance put you off from applying. You don’t need to know it all on day one. The most important thing is to show enthusiasm and ask questions.