David Kelly, JLT’s managing director of sport, talks about the challenge of one touch solutions, his character-building career and his love of all things sporting.
How did you get into the industry?
After finishing my HSC in 1984 I sent my resume to four employers, one of which was AMP. And AMP was the first to offer me an interview and subsequent position. The rest is history!
What was it about the industry that piqued your interest?
It was the variety of different areas you could venture into. Also, AMP was a company brand I recognised and felt would be a good employer with strong benefits.
When did you know it was right for you?
I explored some different career paths early in my career. However, by the mid to late 1990s I was set on a career in insurance and specifically broking.
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What challenges and opportunities do you see for the industry at the moment?
We are currently challenged with many one-touch solutions being offered by the market together with placement facilities and binders. The opportunities are still abundant for pure broking and interactional transactions for our clients. In the sporting segment we are seeing sponsorships being provided to bodies as a means to secure broking appointments, but this needs to be complemented with a genuine value proposition and proven servicing capabilities. Where there are challenges there are always opportunities.
Any particular highlights in your career?
Last year I was very proud to be awarded the [
NIBA] Broker of the Year Award for Vic/Tas. I have also been very fortunate to travel overseas and have been present at many spectacular and memorable sporting events, both locally and overseas.
In general, what do you think the future holds for the insurance industry?
The global insurance industry is a constantly evolving landscape. It has proven to be resilient and robust and able to rise to the challenges that the changing markets, client circumstances and preferences present. Insurance will always remain relevant for corporates as they cope with the changing nature and complexity of their risks. I’m proud to be part of a company that constantly reviews the changing markets globally to bring the best of new innovations to our clients here in Australia.
Outside of the industry what are your hobbies?
I love sport of all kinds but specifically golf, AFL, cricket and tennis. I enjoy watching my son play basketball and attending sporting events, movies and the theatre with my family.
How would you sum up your career in insurance in one sentence?
Challenging, enlightening, rewarding and character-building.
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