Launching an Insurance Practitioner career with Marsh
A case study on our Level 3 Insurance Practitioner Apprenticeship
Learner profile
Name: Olivia Gikas
Programme: Level 3 Insurance Practitioner Apprenticeship
Job title: Apprentice Client Advisor
Organisation: Marsh
My education and background
My post-secondary education was at sixth form, where I studied Biology, Economics and Psychology. I took a particular interest in the economic system and decided that I wanted to pursue a career in financial services. During my A-Levels I worked part time as a Customer Service Advisor at a popular retailer. In this role I developed my basic work skills including communication and teamwork whilst maintaining knowledge of current promotions and hitting sales targets. Currently, I am working full-time in London as an apprentice client advisor within the Corporate team at Marsh. I have been in my role for just under a year and a half, having completed the Certificate in Insurance (Cert CII).
Why I chose an apprenticeship?
I knew from an early age that I didn’t want to study at university. I wanted to get straight into the workplace to find out about life in financial services whilst building a firm foundation for my career. When I was 17, I attended a careers fair where a mutual friend spoke about their experience as an apprentice at one of Marsh’s sister companies. I was instantly intrigued by their presentation, drawn in by the opportunity to gain a professional qualification whilst getting involved on real projects with real clients. What also impressed me was the company’s clear dedication to apprentices and their professional development. Later that day I registered for Marsh’s talent network and applied for the role I am in today.
How did my studies prepare me for my career?
The ability to perform in my role as a client advisor relies on technical knowledge to an extent. Through my studies I have developed a knowledge and understanding of the general insurance market and its key elements, including the legal principles that apply to insurance contracts. Studying for the exams also presented an opportunity to enhance my skill set, as I had to balance the demands of my role with revision. The reward for studying hard and progressing technically has offered opportunities on more complex accounts and expanding my professional capabilities.
My advice for others
Remember that everyone was once a beginner. Embrace being a trainee and use it to your advantage! Ask lots of questions and ask again if you don’t understand. You will find that everyone around you will be friendly and more than willing to help you, plus it shows that you are genuinely interested in your role and might lead you to further opportunities. I often remind myself that it’s better to ask a thousand times than to stay quiet and make a mistake.
My ambition
I haven’t decided what my ultimate ambition is as yet. Being in the early days of my career means that there is so much I still have to learn and discover. Marsh is a huge business with so many opportunities to be found. However, my short terms goals include completing my apprenticeship and becoming fully competent in my role. I also have ambitions to carry on studying, with the Diploma in Insurance being next.
