Stuck in a Lift with an Underwriter | Adele Halfpenny

Tell us a bit about being an Underwriter?

It’s fulfilling in numerous ways. You have the analytical side of reviewing a risk, as well as the more personable customer service/relationship building side of catching up with and negotiating with Brokers. No day is the same and I’m really enjoying the exposure to so many different business types and scenarios. You are always learning as an Underwriter!

How do you like your coffee?

Ideally a strong flat white. Add some cake on the side and I’ll be your best friend for life!

What is your biggest achievement to date – personal or professional?

My husband and I bought our dream house early last year. We’ve moved around a lot and this house is perfect for us. It’s in a beautiful tree-lined street with lots of birdlife, a big rose garden and plenty of space. After living in a tiny 2 bedroom unit I never take it for granted!

What does a typical day look like for you and what are you currently working on?

5 am wake-up call to hit the treadmill and get my brain into gear for the day. I then also read or listen to a podcast depending on how I’m feeling. I am still quite new to the Berkley Insurance Australia family so my days are currently spent on product learning and working through quotes with the team. We also have days out visiting Brokers or attending some really insightful seminars.

What are three words to describe Berkley Insurance Australia?

Knowledgeable, Responsive & Efficient.

What is something people in insurance have to deal with that you want to fix?

I think sometimes it’s easy for us to get so busy we forget the value of communication. This can lead to misunderstandings or delays. It’s easy to send off an email but I like to pick up the phone and have a conversation. It’s important we’re all on the same page and understanding what is most important to the Broker right now. There may even be other underlying concerns or questions I can address then and there. My job is to ensure the Broker can service their clients professionally and efficiently without too much back and forth or delay.

What do you like most about working with brokers?

Building genuine relationships. It’s rewarding when the people you work with become friends. Each day is like working on a puzzle together and figuring out how we can achieve the best outcome for their clients. If you can get out and celebrate some mutual wins together then even better!

When was the last time you laughed so hard you cried?

I attended a wedding over the weekend and the wine was flowing. Naturally, the dancefloor was packed with some very shall I say ‘creative’ moves which had me laughing so hard! I think we were all in the zone as dancefloors have only just been allowed back at weddings – everyone was keen to show off all the moves they learned in lockdown!

What podcasts or books are listening to/reading right now?

I’m currently reading ‘Think Like a Monk’ by Jay Shetty. A great book touching on the importance of purpose and gratitude. I also really like the “Stuff You Should Know” podcast for random facts about absolutely everything.

What is your guilty pleasure?

Coffee. Something I really need to work on but I love it as it forces me to stop and enjoy the moment, whether I’m by myself or in some really good company.

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