026: Successful journey from Grad Scheme to Specialised Underwriting with Emma White

Summary

Emma White, a senior underwriter at Liberty Specialty Markets, shares her journey in the insurance industry and her specialisation in fine art and species insurance. She discusses the benefits of graduate schemes and offers advice on making the most of these programs.

Emma also highlights the challenges of transitioning from a graduate scheme to a full-time role and provides insights on career progression. She delves into the world of fine art insurance, explaining the diverse range of items that can be insured and the global nature of the industry. Emma also discusses her involvement in committees and networks, emphasising the importance of collaboration and open-mindedness. She concludes by reflecting on the unique experiences and opportunities she has had in her insurance career, particularly in terms of travel and meeting people from different backgrounds.

Takeaways

• To make the most of a graduate scheme, be proactive, say yes to opportunities, and build relationships with colleagues.
• Transitioning from a graduate scheme to a full-time role may require patience and persistence, but staying dedicated and open to learning can lead to career progression.
• Fine art insurance involves insuring a wide range of items, including artwork, fossils, and high-value interests like cash and precious metals.
• Involvement in committees and networks can provide valuable experiences, opportunities for personal growth, and a platform for collaboration and idea-sharing.
• Graduate schemes provide valuable opportunities for learning, networking, and exploring different areas of the insurance industry.
• A career in insurance can offer unique experiences, such as travel and the chance to meet people from diverse backgrounds.