What is your job about?
My role is to assist the insurance brokers in my team in a variety of day-to-day functions. This can include processing new policies, searching for competitive quotes, liaising with underwriters, clients and other brokers in helping achieve the best outcome for our clients. Nutrien has access to many underwriters, therefore we can insure almost anything, no two days are the same! We spend time out on the road, visiting clients, their farms and attending bull sales throughout the region to write up new policies.
What is your background?
I was originally born in Sydney and relocated to Armidale Northern NSW where I finished my schooling and attended university. During my university time, I worked on multiple farms and varied farms around the district and beyond, which gave me a solid understanding of different agricultural systems. After graduating, I moved to Dorrigo where I approached the Nutrien Manager about job opportunities and there just so happened to be a vacant position in the insurance department.
Could someone with a different background do your job?
Yes, someone with any background could do this job, however having a solid understanding of farming and its processes definitely helps. While we offer insurance for a vast array of industries, Nutrien first and foremost is an agricultural company and so being able to relate with farmers is crucial. Some skills and characteristics which prove useful to this role is attention to detail, the ability to be analytical in your work, having very solid communication skills and most importantly being amicable and having the ability to foster strong relationships. A lot of this role is liaising with clients, underwriters and fellow employees and so being able to build strong connections with all of them are crucial. Remember, when people are having to utilise their insurance and make a claim, they’re probably not having a great day, so being able to accommodate this and navigate these waters is vital.
What is the coolest thing about your job?
Helping our clients achieve security in either their large-scale enterprises or their single car policy is both a rewarding and at times challenging experience. The insurance world is so incredibly diverse, and the opportunities are endless.
The ability to have a corporate job, in a regional setting, in the ag industry is priceless. You don’t have to relocate to a major city to start your career in finance or insurance, Nutrien has these opportunities in almost every town in Australia. This commitment to Australian agriculture is unrivalled.
What are the limitations of your job?
The job does involve a lot of office work, which after working on a Bull Stud in Guyra is somewhat of a welcome relief when it's 8 and sleeting. In my specific role, there is a lot of processing of policies and applications which I don’t mind but wouldn’t be for everyone. Having high attention to detail and analytical is a must in this role as a simple mistake can prove quite serious, however, if you take your time, read things carefully and don’t rush you will be fine!
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