BIBA Conference provides terrific learning opportunities for FUW Insurance Services Ltd staff
In May, FUW Insurance Services Ltd staff attended the British Insurance Brokers’ Association (BIBA) Conference in Manchester, providing an opportunity to network and learn from partners and stakeholders from across the industry sector.
Held at the Manchester Central Convention Complex, the BIBA Conference is Europe’s largest insurance broking exhibition. Founded in 1978, the conference brings together thousands of registered brokers, exhibitors and stakeholders. The event provides terrific networking opportunities as well as an opportunity to learn from a wide array of guest speakers and panel discussions on a range of issues impacting the insurance sector.
Amongst the FUW Insurance Services’ attendees were representatives from our internal Account Executive Academy. Founded earlier this year, six successful candidates from FUW Insurance Services offices from across Wales were selected for the 18-month programme, which includes a range of training sessions focused on developing Account Executive duties. Previous sessions include events at FUW Insurance Services’ partners ERS in Swansea and NIG Farmweb in Gloucester.
This year’s two-day conference included a wide-range of discussions, including a seminar focused on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for insurance brokers over the next 25 years, such as Artificial Intelligence to build resilience in an increasingly unpredictable global landscape.
Reflecting on her experiences at her first BIBA Conference, Lowri Angharad Williams, Account Executive Academy member and Account Handler at our Llanrwst office said:
“Having been part of the Academy for a few months now, this was the best learning experience yet. I had heard of ‘BIBA’ from colleagues who had attended before, but I wasn’t aware of what this really meant.
We had the opportunity to visit hundreds of stands of insurers we already work with, and other insurers we could take into consideration if they meet our requirements. I enjoyed discussing what is working well with our insurers, and what issues we have in terms of any policies we are struggling to place. It is very important for us to build our relationship with the insurers, and it was great to put a face to the names we have spoken to over the phone or by email.
I’ve worked for FUW Insurance for almost 4 years as an Account Handler, and amazing opportunities like this have helped expand my understanding and confidence, with the hope that this could help me progress to being an Accounts Executive when the right opportunity arises.”
Meanwhile, fellow Academy member, Nia Evans from FUW Insurance Services’ Haverfordwest office added:
“Attending BIBA was a valuable experience. As an Account Handler working for FUW Insurance Services, BIBA provided insightful seminars on industry trends and emerging technologies such as AI and digital transformations.
Listening to experienced professionals in the insurance industry helped provide me with a broader understanding of where the insurance industry is heading. The discussions provided a fresh perspective around common challenges facing the insurance sector,
giving me the opportunity to network with industry experts and current insurers which we deal with. This event helped enhance my knowledge base and has helped strengthen my professional development.”
Concluding, Karen Royles, FUW Insurance Services Operations and Sales Support Director, said:
“It’s a key event to catch-up with so many of our valued partners, as well as nurture a better understanding of the challenges and changes facing the insurance sector.
It also provided a terrific opportunity for members of our internal academy to experience the insurance industry in a wider context, and develop their confidence and professional networks.”