Toby Guy, general manager of Austagencies, talks about creating opportunities, challenging Gen Y employees and great wine.
Why insurance?
I started my insurance career as a graduate at
Munich Re and enjoyed every minute of it. I’m passionate about what I do and I don’t suspect that any other industry could give me the level of satisfaction that I gain from my job. Simply put, round peg, round hole!
How would you change the industry?
We’ve got a long way to go. Our industry’s firm foundations will always remain the same but we’ve got to innovate, bust open old fashioned ways of doing business and wipe away some of the inefficiencies to make this an industry of choice.
What’s the most important thing a broker can do to develop their business?
Understand the needs of the insurance purchaser and deliver their story to their insurer. Don’t be afraid to try new markets and give your loyalty to the best ‘home’ in the market.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
Stop. Ask questions. Make a decision
If you were Prime Minister for one day, what would you do?
I think our PM gets a rough time from the public. It really is the toughest job in the nation and I would think most rewarding (if you can ignore the constant media scrutiny). I suppose I’d learn very quickly how to ‘duck-and-weave’ hard pressing questions and try to put my stamp on the economy by giving some tax relief to small business.
What’s the biggest challenge facing the industry today?
It used to be getting Gen Y’s into our industry, but I am now learning that it’s keeping them challenged and ready to tackle new and exciting things. This is key to our industry reaching its potential into the future.
What has been the highlight of your career?
Getting to the stage where I can pass opportunities over to my colleagues. I love creating career paths and know that ultimately that is a legacy that I want for my career.
What’s your favoured style of coffee?
I’ll drink anything with caffeine in it – except energy drinks!
NRL, AFL, Soccer or other?
All of the above, but mostly love watching my three boys ‘having-a-go’ on the sporting field.
Complete this sentence: If I wasn’t in insurance, I would be…
A vintner - love the idea of creating a great wine.
