In the spotlight: A Q&A with Raff Lyons

What’s your role at Nelson Policies at Lloyd’s?

I’m the Assistant Development Underwriter and it’s my role to create and maintain new and existing relationships with our brokers, as well as underwriting Commercial business

How did you get started in the insurance industry?

I guess like most people I fell into it! I worked at a supermarket when I left school and quickly realised that 12 hours a week wasn’t quite enough to fund my lifestyle. After chatting with family working in the industry, I thought it sounded interesting and decided to see if it was something that I could do. I started in sales at a local broker and progressed into underwriting – there are lots of opportunities in this industry if you look for them

What are the best and the worst things about the insurance industry?

The best thing about this industry is the opportunities. There’s such a range of different roles, responsibilities, and products that you never have the same day twice and that’s why I’ve stuck around. I think the worst thing is probably how Insurance is perceived from the outside. Sometimes it can get a bad wrap but our main focus is tailoring a product to meet the needs of our brokers and their clients.

How would you describe your team’s approach to service?

One word? Human. You can just pick up the phone and speak to one of our team which can be a rarity now and I’m thankful this is how we operate and will continue to do so. Yes, I know… That’s a lot more than one word…

What advice would you give to anyone starting out in their insurance career today?

Take opportunities as they present themselves and take yourself outside your comfort zone. From personal experience it’s the best way to learn about the industry and find the right role for you.

What would you do if you weren’t working in the insurance industry?

Probably something like events organisation or marketing. Two jobs that also allow you to be a bit creative and think outside the box.

What one thing would people be surprised to know about you?

Not sure why I’m putting this out publicly… I love a romcom. It might just be the best film genre invented.

What do you love about working at Nelson Policies?

It has to be the team. When you work with great people it makes you want to succeed not just for yourself but the company as a whole. It’s like working for a family business.