Graduate Spotlight

We’re looking forward to attending BIBA conference next week and meeting with the wider insurance and broking industry. On Young Broker Day (15 May) our team will be hosting sessions for local students which will focus on interview techniques, CV writing and network building.

As a business, we are committed to supporting the younger generation by providing talented individuals with opportunities to kickstart their careers. One of the ways we do this is through our Gallagher Futures programme, which provides graduates with the opportunity to pursue a career in the industry. The Futures programme enables graduates to acquire the skills, knowledge, experience, and relationships necessary to flourish in the industry.

We asked some of our graduates what they enjoy about working at Gallagher and how the Futures programme has supported them in their careers…

Gabriella Culham, Compliance Generalist, Risk & Compliance:

What do you enjoy most about your role and working at Gallagher?

Working at Gallagher has exceeded my expectations, as it is a company that really fosters a culture of collaboration and teamwork. I especially love working alongside talented colleagues who are passionate about delivering exceptional insurance solutions and risk management strategies. Together, as a team, I feel as though we tackle challenges and celebrate successes, making every day fulfilling.

What do you enjoy about working in the insurance industry?

Insurance is a multifaceted industry with a wide range of career paths. From underwriting and claims management to risk assessment and strategic consulting, the variety of roles available means there's always something new to learn and explore. The ever-evolving nature of risks and regulations means that the insurance industry is constantly changing. This environment of continuous learning and adaptation is something I find incredibly stimulating and rewarding.

How has being on Gallagher’s graduate programme helped you in your career?

Being part of Gallagher’s graduate programme has connected me to a wide network of industry professionals. By being given the opportunity to interact with peers and leaders, it has expanded my perspective and forged valuable connections that will benefit my career in the long run.

Additionally, the programme provides an array of comprehensive training opportunities. For example, the professional qualification with Chartered Insurance Institute has equipped me with technical expertise, and the enrolment on various other courses with external companies have significantly enhanced my soft skills. These learning experiences have been crucial in establishing a solid foundation for my career, alongside the work I complete in my typical day job.

Mo Bawadekji, Business Development Associate:

What do you enjoy most about your role and working at Gallagher?

My favourite aspect of my role is collaborating with diverse business owners across various sectors and learning about what contributes to their success. Gallagher is a vast organisation, offering endless opportunities to learn new things and connect with colleagues who specialise in different areas. This constant exposure to new knowledge and expertise is really helpful in terms of my career development.

What do you enjoy about working in the insurance industry?

Having the right insurance in place is fundamental for businesses of all sizes. As brokers, we use our insight and industry knowledge to help protect businesses so that they can continue to grow and thrive. Since entering the insurance industry, I have acquired a range of transferable skills such as problem-solving, negotiation, and customer interaction, which are invaluable. Insurance plays a crucial role in the economy and I have found that it is an industry that offers numerous opportunities, I really feel like I have a clear progression path.

How has being on Gallagher’s graduate programme helped you in your career?

The graduate programme at Gallagher involves extensive training and we get the opportunity to travel across the country to meet colleagues from different parts of the business. The graduate programme has helped me to develop my insurance and risk management knowledge as well as gaining insight into a range of different industries. We are encouraged to grow our own networks, and Gallagher hosts numerous events for graduates, this has enabled me to connect with colleagues in different roles across the business.

Ayshea King, Energy Account Handler:

What do you enjoy most about your role and working at Gallagher?

In my role, I support a range of really interesting businesses within the energy sector and I often work across very complex claims. My team are supportive and I have learnt a lot of new skills since joining the business, as well as having the opportunity to study for insurance qualifications. Gallagher hosts regular networking and career development events, and this has enabled me to build my wider network, which is a definite highlight of the Futures programme.

What do you enjoy about working in the insurance industry?

I have friends and family who work in the industry and they have always spoken about how happy they are in their jobs. Since joining the industry, my experience has been similar and I’ve found the sector to be friendly and my job provides me with a healthy work-life balance. I have also found that people spend many years in the insurance industry, which speaks volumes. One of my favourite things about the industry is how social it is, I really enjoy all the network events and I am a member of the Lloyd’s Netball Club.

How has being on Gallagher’s graduate programme helped you in your career?

I began Gallagher’s graduate programme to change my career by pivoting away from Midwifery and into insurance. What I really like about the programme is that I have the opportunity to study for insurance qualifications that will help me broaden my knowledge of industry law and the London Market. As graduates, we regularly get the opportunity to attend career development days which provide us with skills such as public speaking and network building. Since joining Gallagher, I’ve built relationships with other graduates and I feel like I have a really supportive and diverse network.