Allianz UK’s now 11-month-old broker apprenticeship scheme is proving to be a successful programme, as evidenced by the “resoundingly positive” feedback from participants.
“The one-to-one coaching sessions are interactive and thought-provoking, as well as helping to guide me through,” commented Daines Kapp Insurance Brokers’ George Worby, who is one of the 22 brokers currently being nurtured by the Allianz Broker Apprenticeship Programme. “They have made me think about my position in my company and how I can contribute, from simple day-to-day activities to comprehensive processes.
“The apprenticeship gives me the opportunity to confirm, develop, and add to my understanding of the insurance industry and my skills. It is playing a big part in the start of my career, and in me becoming a more well-rounded professional in insurance broking. It is the perfect accompaniment to my job.”
Introduced in January, the scheme was co-created with specialist apprenticeship training provider Davies Learning Solutions.
The programme uniquely supports brokers at three levels: ‘insurance practitioner’ for those looking to develop their career and achieve the Certificate Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) qualification; ‘insurance professional’, which is a development pathway allowing candidates to specialise in a particular area with supporting Diploma-level qualification; and ‘senior insurance professional’ for skills needed to succeed at a senior level and complete Associateship-level qualifications.
Worby, for instance, is working towards his Cert CII.
Fairweather Insurance’s Hannah Hendricks, meanwhile, described the scheme as a great programme to be a part of.
“Having a coach has been a great help as she has pushed me and supported me throughout, and never made me feel there is something I can’t do,” said Hendricks. “She has opened my eyes up to how big the world of insurance is and helped me to consider where I want to be, and how I can get there.”
Davies Learning Solutions, according to growth & client success director Carolyn Blunt, is “delighted” that both the insurer and its broker network are benefiting from the initiative.
“The value of developing the knowledge, skills, and behaviours required of the insurance apprenticeship in addition to professional industry qualifications is really shining through,” asserted Blunt. “The expertise and support of our coaches continues to be one of the primary success factors in achievements, and all of us at Davies take real job satisfaction in watching the next generation of insurance talent flourish.”
For Allianz Insurance chief distribution and regions officer Nick Hobbs (pictured), it’s all worth it.
“The enthusiasm from this group of apprentices is very encouraging, and proves that this scheme has been well worth undertaking,” he stated. “Finding and nurturing the future leaders and pioneers of the insurance industry is a crucial part of sharpening expertise together.”
The Allianz Broker Apprenticeship Programme is a key part of the Allianz Partners Academy training offering.
