Midlands

I worked in Life Services at NFU Mutual for several years. During this time, I had the opportunity to visit an agency. The world of General Insurance was alien to me then, but the idea of being self-employed in a local business, with the backing of NFU Mutual seemed liked a fantastic opportunity. So I made the move.

The role is incredibly varied; from meeting customers and developing your team, to planning and looking at ways to improve and shape your business – there’s always something to keep you busy. Watching staff member’s progress is a particular highlight of my role. I’ve been lucky enough to see two of my Commercial Insurance sellers become Agents themselves – with one now a partner at the Central Warwickshire agency.

Being an Agent is all about working in a partnership. As an Agent in the Ashby agency I work alongside two other Agents and share the responsibilities for our team. Working together gives us a diversity of opinions – something I find invaluable. It’s great being part of a team, we’re all in it together and it’s a lot of fun.

I love the variety of work you get as an Agent. One day you’ll be out visiting customers and learning about their business - which is a really interesting part of the role - the next you’re involved in training and recruitment; whether that’s watching your team grow and develop or taking part in training yourself. Whether you’re new into the role or have been doing it for a while, there are plenty of courses available that’ll help you perform at your best and excel in your role.

I’ve worked in the insurance industry for over 18 years. My favourite role was with NFU Mutual as a Business Development Manager, where I was responsible for growing the Broker channel. I had the opportunity to look after a wide variety of customers, but never felt I “owned” the relationship. When the opportunity to join a former colleague as a Partner at a fast paced, commercially focussed agency arose, I jumped right in.

In the Agent role you get to combine all the skills you’ve learnt over the years and put them into practice with the full support of a trusted UK insurance brand above the door. Our customers are the heart and soul of the business, and it’s a joy to build an Agency which consistently delivers excellent customer service.

I come from a farming background and joined NFU Mutual as a graduate trainee in 1995. After being a Sales Manager, leading experienced Agents, I launched my own new agency in 2008. It was a real challenge, but I knew how the model worked, and researched the practicalities of being self-employed, so I managed to build a successful business.

I enjoy developing long-lasting customer relationships. You’re integral to their lives and welcomed into their homes as a trusted adviser. There’s a genuine connection because you’re part of the community. Being self-employed, you get to challenge yourself. You set ambitious business goals and achieve them, then set more because you want to keep growing the business and achieving.