We recently sat down with our newest Prestige underwriting team members, Sophie, John and Hayley, to get to know them better and hear about their journey to ERS. Here’s what they had to say.
Can you tell us about your journey to ERS? How did you find yourself working in insurance?
John:
I began my career working for brokers before transitioning into underwriting at Zurich, where I had the opportunity to work with Mark Suffield, who now works at ERS as a regional trading Underwriter. In fact, he’s hired me twice now!
In previous roles, I got experience underwriting different types of risks, but I was always drawn to motor. When the opportunity at ERS came up, it felt like the right next step for me.
Sophie:
I started out at Oak Underwriting before it was taken over by Zurich, focusing on private client brokering – that's where I met John. I started in insurance straight after school and it’s now an industry I’m passionate about. It's funny how, almost everyone I know works in insurance now! Mark also reached out to me about taking on a regional-based role, and here I am, loving what I do.
Hayley:
I originally worked in sales, operations, and retail for over ten years. I wanted a role where I could transfer my skills, so I applied for a trainee underwriting role in September 2024. Since moving from operations to Prestige Underwriting, I’ve been mentored by Mark, and I’m loving it. I’ve been able to transfer skills like communication, problem-solving, and organisation into my underwriting role, and it’s been great applying them in this new context.
How has your experience been in building strong broker relationships so far?
John:
In previous roles, the workload was so high that building strong broker relationships wasn’t always the top priority. It’s nice to see that ERS really values this. I’m also looking at brokers who don’t have much business with us yet and hoping to change that – that’s a key focus for me in the first quarter.
Sophie:
I’m building relationships with brokers, including some I’ve worked with previously, which has been helpful in my role. It’s made it easier to build strong connections and establish trust.
I recently had my first broker visit, which was a fantastic opportunity to introduce myself in person and gain a deeper understanding of their needs. We had a productive discussion about how ERS can support them, the types of risks they are placing, and where we can add value. It was great to hear first-hand about the challenges they face and how we can work together to provide the right solutions. The visit reinforced the importance of face-to-face interactions in strengthening relationships, and I left feeling positive about the partnership moving forward. The plan is to support the RTU’s primarily in the Midlands, but I’ll also be helping Jim in the North and Sam in the South as well.
Hayley:
Since I spent two years in operations at ERS, I already knew a lot of the brokers before stepping into this role, which has been a massive help. Back then, I was mostly dealing with incoming queries; the brokers would reach out when they needed something, and I’d sort it out. Now, it’s flipped, and I’m the one picking up the phone, checking in, and kicking off conversations, which has been a really nice change!
I really enjoy being more hands-on now, reaching out to brokers and starting conversations instead of just handling things as they come in. It gives me the chance to talk through risks, build stronger relationships, and add even more value. Plus, it’s been great catching up with brokers I already knew and getting to know some new faces along the way!
How have your first few months with us been? What’s a typical day like for you?
John:
It’s been great! I spent two weeks in London to start, then a week in Swansea to put names to faces. I stayed away from home for three weeks to really settle in, and everyone has been so welcoming. The office vibe is great – lively and friendly, which is different from past experiences.
Sophie:
The first few months have been great! Everyone’s been really welcoming, and I’ve enjoyed getting stuck in. The mix of working with brokers, getting out on the road, and handling interesting cases has kept things exciting.
A typical day depends on what’s going on - some days I’m out meeting brokers, catching up over coffee, or visiting their offices. Other days, I’m at my desk reviewing risks, answering queries, and working with the team to find solutions for more complex cases. No two days are the same, which is what I love about the role!
Hayley:
Both offices have their own unique atmosphere - Swansea has a calm, relaxed feel, while London is always buzzing with energy. The past five months have been amazing! This is the role I worked towards when I applied in 2023, and I’ve loved every step of the journey.
I’ve completed my Continuous Professional Development (CPD) and Chartered Institute of Insurance (CII), and have had the privilege of being mentored by Jim and Mark. There’s always something new to learn, especially when working closely with brokers, but I enjoy the challenge and pushing my limits every day.
What’s the best part of underwriting in a regional and Prestige context?
John:
Getting back to motor underwriting! I prefer motor over household, which was pulling me away from what I really wanted to do. The high-net-worth field is also fascinating – we get to see some interesting cases. Because we work regionally, we understand local markets, driving habits, and broker needs better than most. This helps us build trust and offer more tailored solutions.
Underwriting Prestige vehicles isn’t just about numbers, it’s about appreciating what makes them special. Whether it’s a McLaren, a Bentley, or a rare vintage Ferrari, we understand that these vehicles are more than just transport. They’re passions, investments, and even part of the family.
Sophie:
I love that we have dedicated underwriters ready to provide bespoke solutions. Our product is flexible – we can tailor cover when needed. Because we’re true specialists, we can handle complex cases that other insurers might turn away.
John and I have always worked together in the high-net-worth Prestige space, and ERS stands out because we focus purely on motor rather than trying to juggle multiple classes of business.
Hayley:
I’ve always been interested in cars, especially Japanese models and motorsport. Every risk we assess is interesting, and it feeds into my passion. I’m naturally curious and love learning, which makes Prestige a great fit for me. Prestige clients expect top-tier service if something goes wrong. We ensure their vehicles get the best care possible, using specialist repairers that maintain the car’s original quality and value.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in underwriting?
John:
Go for it! It’s been a great career for me. I’d say it helps to start from the bottom, so you get a well-rounded understanding.
Sophie:
The more experience you gain, the better equipped you are to handle anything that comes your way!
Underwriting is something we all do every day. When you assess everyday risks, you're making similar decisions to what we do. For example, when deciding whether to drive in bad weather, you think about risks like road conditions, visibility, and your experience. This is similar to how we assess risks when underwriting a policy. The more you understand risk, the better service you can provide, whether it's choosing coverage or helping your clients with their own decisions.
Hayley:
Insurance is more interesting than people think! There are so many different roles within it. And yes, it sounds nerdy, but everyone underwrites in their daily life – every decision involves some level of risk assessment.
What hobbies or interests keep you busy in your free time?
John:
I’m really into sports, especially boxing and football – I support West Ham, so it’s exciting when we actually win! I’m also a big music fan and love going to festivals and gigs. Rock and punk are my go-to genres.
Sophie:
I spend a lot of time with my family, especially my Nan – she’s literally my best friend. I also love walking my rescue Staffordshire Bull Terrier. He’s turning three this month!
Hayley:
I have a rescue Staffy too! Outside of that, I love cold water dips in rivers, DJing, and being out in nature – whether that’s sitting around a fire on the beach or just enjoying good vibes. I guess I’m pretty close to being a hippie!
