Michael Reynolds, director of motor fleet underwriting at HDI Global, discusses how deliberate talent development from insurance firms highlights the strength of the sector
It’s often talked about that career progression only comes from constant job moves, while staying with one employer is seen as a risk rather than an opportunity.
However, my experience in insurance suggests that isn’t always the case.
I joined the industry straight out of school, without a university degree and with little understanding of what insurance actually involved. I had no idea how many different functions existed in an insurance firm, or how many transferable skills the sector relies on.
Claims, underwriting, data, leadership, relationship management – insurance needs all of them and often rewards those willing to develop across disciplines.
And so, after job searching across a range of sectors, I accepted a role as claims administrator at HDI in its London office, completely oblivious to the fact that this would kick start a career I truly enjoy.
Fast forward ten years later and I have recently been promoted to director of motor fleet underwriting, having progressed through several roles within the same organisation.
That journey wasn’t about staying still – it was about being given opportunities to grow and jumping at them.
Developing talent
Rather than assuming that talent had to be hired in, HDI’s focus was on developing what it already had.
That approach makes such a difference, particularly for people who don’t follow a traditional academic route or who may not see insurance as an obvious long-term career at the outset.
The structured development and clear progression pathways that HDI create and offer allowed my skills to be built, tested and ultimately used where they could deliver the greatest impact.
As my career progressed, I’ve had to develop new skills outside of technical capability, such as understanding data to gain confidence in decision making, and improving my leadership skills to help manage my team.
The insurance industry itself has also changed over the past decade. The skills required today are very different from when I started. Data and management information are now far more accessible and, of course, technology has evolved rapidly too, with the rise of artificial intelligence being embedded in risk management, safety and claims processes.
But, despite this, insurance remains fundamentally a people-led sector that still relies on strong social and relationship driven collaboration, whether it’s with brokers, clients or colleagues – at meetings, conferences or, of course, down at Leadenhall market.
That human element is one of the many reasons I have stayed within the insurance sector.
For those who may not see insurance as an obvious first choice, I can whole-heartedly say it remains a sector capable of offering long-term, fulfilling careers.
My own journey shows what’s possible when organisations take development seriously and create clear routes for progression. Insurance has evolved, but it still rewards curiosity and commitment.
At a time when many careers feel uncertain, it offers the chance to build deep expertise, grow with a business and shape your career over time.
If the industry continues to invest in people and make those opportunities visible, it has every reason to remain a destination for talent – not just a stepping stone.
