How long have you been associated with IUMI?

I attended my first IUMI conference in 2012 in San Diego, USA, and was appointed to the Loss Prevention Committee in 2015.

What is your IUMI role today, and what does it involve? 

I am currently the Vice Chair of the Executive Committee (EC). The EC is responsible for the administration and management of IUMI in accordance with the general policy determined by the Council. Currently, the EC is working on IUMI’s new strategy, ‘IUMI 2030’.

This is exciting work and is broken down into six streams, 1) Tasks and Purpose, 2) Finances 3) Organisation, 4) People and Diversity, 5) Membership and 6) Events. I am also the Executive Committee Liaison for the Facts and Figures Committee, as well as for the Data and Digitalisation Forum.

And what is your day job?

I work at Intact Insurance Company/Coast Underwriters Ltd and within my role as marine claims leader in Vancouver, Canada, I review large volumes of complex claims involving all types of marine losses, such as hull & machinery, cargo and various liability exposures.

I also have the opportunity to mentor and teach marine insurance professionals, which I greatly enjoy. It is always thrilling to spot newcomers who are passionate about the subject matter.

What advice do you have for newcomers to the marine insurance industry?  

Start with the basics and sign up for marine insurance courses to allow for a solid foundation to build on as your career progresses.

What are the most important skills anyone needs to succeed in the marine insurance industry?

Marine insurance is international, so staying up to date with current world affairs is essential. Whether you are an underwriter, a claims manager, a broker or an adjuster, dealing with people requires excellent customer service and communication skills. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and analytical skills are also necessary.

Be open, embrace the insurance sector’s digital transformation, and use technology to create or improve business processes, products or services.

What benefits do you get from being associated with IUMI?

I enjoy the networking opportunities IUMI offers and meeting marine insurance colleagues from all over the world. I also value the vast amount of information IUMI provides its members, such as statistics, trends and loss prevention.

If you could change anything at IUMI, what would it be?

I would like to see our member associations support newcomers to attend the conferences and learn more about IUMI.

How did you reach your current position in marine insurance?

My father was a marine insurance professional who instilled in me a passion for the subject matter plus hard work and dedication.

And what do you do away from the office? 

I enjoy going to the theatre, going on long walks and swimming in the warm waters of Hawaii.