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Chloe Austin of Amicus Brokers was listed in Insurance Business’ inaugural Young Guns report, a ranking of “rising stars” from brokerages, underwriting agencies, insurance companies and legal practices around New Zealand. Here, she talks more about her career to date.
1. Why did you get into insurance broking?
To be honest, I wasn’t looking specifically to get into insurance. The role came up, I was offered the job and the rest is history.
2. What motivates you, gets you out of bed in the morning?
I enjoy what I do at work, leading my team to be the best they can and providing the best service possible to our customers.
3. Where do you see the industry going?
I think there is always going to be a need for insurance; last year our book value increased by 17%. I believe that we can keep increasing that value. The industry, for us, has changed a lot since the Christchurch Earthquakes, but I think people are more aware of the need for insurance and, importantly, transparency from us, the brokers and the actual insurer.
4. What are the biggest trends?
Seems to be at the moment, the increase in premiums and excesses, which isn’t always easy to present to a customer, but we are dedicated to providing a service that is more than just price.
5. Will online digital advice eventually replace brokers?
Hopefully not. There are too many variables for a digital service to be able to successfully navigate. And nothing beats actually speaking to a person, not a machine or sitting on the phone pushing multiple buttons for different options.
6. As a young professional in insurance, how do you think you can influence the industry?
I’d like to think that I can influence our customers as well as their perception of the industry. The insurance industry, especially lately, doesn’t always receive good press – but if me, my team and our company can provide excellent advice, service and policies to fit the circumstances of each client, we’re doing our part for the industry.
7. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
That’s a hard one – I’m only 23 now. I could be still in the industry, I could be married with two children and a dog. Whatever I am doing, I know I’ve gained valuable skills from working in the insurance industry.
