Episode Guest:

Laura Shaw is Head of Digital Trading at Hiscox UK, where she leads the integration of technology and broker relationships to drive growth. With over 25 years at Hiscox, she has held 12 different roles, championing change and the development of future talent.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:09 Why Laura said yes to My Duvet Flip

1:12 First job lessons — from WH Smith to the post office

2:20 Why applying for more than one job matters

3:40 Discovering insurance after university

4:57 Surprises about the insurance industry

5:04 26 years, 12 jobs — Laura’s Hiscox journey

6:01 Moving from trainee underwriter to new opportunities

7:02 Taking risks and battling imposter syndrome

7:56 Learning new skills in different locations

8:46 Why meeting people in person matters

9:39 Dealing with things going wrong — honesty first

10:20 Finding confidence and being authentic at work

11:32 Why people are at the heart of Hiscox

12:14 When colleagues leave — keeping relationships alive

12:57 Laura’s current role — digital trading explained

13:56 Bringing AI into insurance

15:18 The skills needed to use AI effectively

17:10 Top three skills Laura looks for in her team

18:08 Secrets to a successful insurance career

19:04 Why young people should join insurance

20:16 Laura’s advice for your first day at Hiscox

20:52 The two reasons she’s stayed 26 years

21:58 One word to sum up her career: change

22:45 How to embrace change as a journey

23:14 Laura’s duvet flip — the future of insurance

Episode Partner:

Hiscox, a leading international insurer with more than 3,000 employees worldwide. The company is known for specialist insurance solutions and a strong commitment to customer service.

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Head of Digital Trading at Hiscox UK: Lessons From 12 Careers in One Company

My Duvet Flip by Jack Parsons