
My name is Megan and I am currently an SME underwriter in the Lancaster branch. I previously attended Liverpool Hope University studying Education with Sports and Physical Education.
What is your role and how long have you been at Allianz?
What would a 'normal' day look like for someone in your role?
A typical day (pre-covid 19) would be based in the Lancaster office. In my office, I specifically look at SME business (small to medium size enterprise). I am currently working in the New Business sector and therefore this would entail analysis of potential new business presentations/clients. I specifically am located within the broker markets department and therefore a lot of my day to day discussions and trading will be with brokers. I will review and analyse risks as well as trade with brokers to get the best terms for both the company and the client. I would typically do this via both telephone and email conversations.
However, it is not only brokers that I speak to. I may also discuss larger cases with the Business developers, in house senior underwriters or higher authority holders in order to get their thoughts or to make them aware of risks that we now have on cover. I will also speak to our claims department and loss adjusters if I am dealing with an existing business enquiry or renewal review. I would definitely say that no two days are the same as you see a variety of different risks which I think is what makes my role so interesting.
What do you find most interesting about the insurance industry?
What inspired you to apply for this role and Allianz?
Do you feel university prepared you for what is expected of you in your role?
How important is diversity and inclusion to you and what is Allianz doing in this space at the moment?
Anything that has surprised you since you started?
What was the application process like? What was the hardest part? What did you enjoy the most?
The application process for the graduate scheme was typically a longer process than any previous process I had entailed prior. I would say that it lasted the course of a few months, from the moment that I had submitted my application to the acceptance. The process was very much straightforward and it was clear at each stage what was expected. I think that the hardest part for me was the video interview. I am a very hands-on learner and like to be very social and interactive and therefore for me, the video interview was challenging as they were pre-recorded questions and no real interaction.
However, my most enjoyable part of the process was the assessment centre. I enjoyed the group activities and being able to test myself in different and unknown environments as well as being able to interact with current employees.
What is the company culture like?
Have you had the opportunity to get involved in any activities outside work?
Finally, any tips for anyone who'd like to apply for a similar role at Allianz?
Do your research! I think the best thing to do is to research the company, the role and the industry as much as you can to ensure that you know what type of role that you are applying for and whether this is a good fit for both yourself and the company.
Other than that, I would personally advise to just be yourself and let your personality shine through in the interview process. Good luck!