From Working in Homes to Insuring Them
This is the journey of Nelson’s Aiden Harris who last year swapped his contractor’s toolbox for an underwriter’s pen.
Fitting bathrooms, repairing pipes and fixing faulty boilers were some of Aiden’s previous daily tasks as a qualified plumber and gas engineer. However, after more than 15 years in the field, he decided a change was needed as his opportunities for growth were lacking.
Wanting to learn something new, the 30-year-old took on an Administration Assistant role at Nelson in August 2023 and learned the ropes working under experienced development underwriters Ashley Goldfinch and Jodie Blackshaw.
The move has proved successful with Aiden recently being promoted to Underwriting Assistant and achieving underwriting authority on the three Nelson products Non-Standard Household, Residential Property Owner and Vacant.
Aiden, from Bexhill, East Sussex, said it had been a big change from being out on the road every day but he had been able to adjust and learn quickly.
“The training has been really good and I take a hard work ethic into everything I do. I like the hustle and bustle of speaking to brokers as well as the fast pace of the job.
“I still have lots to learn and this will come with time. As far as the underwriting process goes, I’ve got this nailed down.”
Aiden may have hung up his tools but his skills with properties continue to be of use when reviewing quote presentations.
Aiden said: “I have a good understanding of property features and layout and can often identify issues, for example with guttering or poor workmanship, when reviewing street images.
“When properties have claims like escape of water, sometimes the detail provided by the broker doesn’t make sense and I know what questions to ask to get a better understanding of what has happened.”
Mark Weatherup, Head of Household, said: “Aiden’s attitude to learning and ability to absorb lots of new information in a short amount of time has been outstanding. It is no surprise he is popular with our brokers and is an important member of the team.”
For new business and renewal enquiries, please call 01622 681243 or email household@nelsonpolicies.co.uk