Meet Olivia, a bright young talent at PIB
Olivia joined PIB less than a year ago, and has already shown impressive growth, moving quickly through roles and making her mark
In under a year since joining us, Olivia has already made her mark. With her dedication, fresh perspective, and impressive growth, she’s quickly navigated through roles and delivered meaningful contributions. Oliva's journey reflects the drive and commitment that make her a standout team member and we can't to see where this leads.
If Olivia’s story inspires you, why not start your own journey with us? We’re always looking for passionate, talented individuals to join our PIB team, discover opportunities at PIB.
Here we explore Olivia’s insurance journey so far…
What has been your career path to joining PIB
I began my insurance career at a small commercial broker in Liverpool, joining as a broker's assistant. I enjoyed the role, but I soon realised there was no opportunity for career progression, so I knew a move to a larger broker would offer the career development I was seeking. As an active LinkedIn user, I spotted a Lead Generation role at PIB, decided to apply, and that’s where my PIB journey began.
Tell us about your PIB journey so far.
I am an enthusiastic and chatty character by nature so I thought the Lead Generation role would suit me and provide me with a greater insight into what clients want. I did find the role challenging; it requires resilience when making calls, many people are busy and not always open to conversation. I have huge admiration for our lead gen team - they’re fantastic at securing appointments despite facing frequent knockbacks. After about six months with the company, I was offered the opportunity to take on a Trainee Account Handler role within the Liverpool branch, which I seized immediately.
Who has been especially helpful to you since you joined PIB, and how have they made a difference in your journey here?
The team in Liverpool are so welcoming and I have two great account handlers, Sam Moran and Janette Rigby who I work closely with. Both have been really supportive, mentoring me on my PIB journey. They give me the confidence to ask questions, but also ask me what I think. 9/10 times I get it right, but I feel empowered to be given the opportunity to get on with the job.
What is it like being a young professional in an industry often seen as traditional?
For someone my age, the insurance industry can feel quite intimidating. However, it offers a wealth of opportunities and can open many doors. At the end of the day, we're all just people, it just needs to be made more approachable.
Do you feel that the industry is doing enough to attract and retain young talent? What can be done if not?
At a summer event, I was asked a similar question by Zach Gray, CEO Specialty and Tom Danson, Regional MD for North West. They both wanted to know what could be done to encourage young people into the business. I felt really valued for them to even ask me!
For me personally, I think too much emphasis can be put on a job description, which for a young person with limited experience, would usually be put off by. Not many would have the courage to continue with an application. I think it’s about showing individuals the opportunities that they can have, it’s such an interesting industry to be a part and build your career in. Once in the business, it’s invaluable to spend time with others, listening and learning alongside them.
In my experience, PIB has the perfect mix, I have been trusted to do the work myself, but I also don’t feel abandoned if I get stuck, there is always someone available to ask, and no question is a silly question.
What aspects of your job do you find most rewarding?
The relationships you build, whether internally, with insurers or most importantly our clients. It’s a nice feeling to know your client trusts you.
How important is workplace culture to you, and what do you think is unique about the culture in PIB?
I love coming to work! I love working with people of all ages, learning from my peers, the variation in knowledge and experience is such a help.
How do you feel about PIB’s approach to diversity and inclusion?
They are doing so much, which is important. As an 18-year-old I really feel included and my age has not held me back, I am taken seriously and always listened to. My opinion is just as regarded as others.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in insurance?
Go for it! Believe in yourself. Each day is completely different, and it will be a career for life.
What has been the most valuable lesson you’ve learned so far, both professionally and personally?
Embrace failure, things happen for a reason. Don’t be hard on yourself if you sometimes don’t get it right. Move on and learn from it.
What are your hopes for the future?
To progress my career in broking, I love it!