Beyond the Desk with Mark Thomas

Episod

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  Why Getting Outside Your Comfort Zone Changes Everything with Charles Boorman 15.09.2026 57min

  What does it take to build a successful career in underwriting?In this episode of Beyond the Desk Underwriting Edition, Sanj Vagad is joined by Charles Boorman to explore a career spanning broking, D&O, financial lines, underwriting leadership, turnarounds and the MGA market.Charles shares how he first fell into insurance before discovering that specialising in D&O was the turning point that made him realise he could genuinely add value to clients. He talks through his move from broking into underwriting at QBE, taking on the leadership of an FI team outside his comfort zone, and the experiences that shaped his approach to building and turning around underwriting businesses.The conversation also explores Charles' move into the MGA world and why an incubator-style model gave him the opportunity to focus on underwriting, building a team and growing a business without taking on the same level of risk as a traditional MGA start-up.Sanj and Charles discuss the challenges of turning around an underwriting business, including managing people, maintaining broker relationships and communicating difficult decisions. Charles also shares his perspective on the current D&O and FI markets, the impact of increasing capacity and competition, and whether combining commercial D&O and FI underwriting makes sense.Towards the end of the episode, Charles offers advice to underwriters looking to broaden their experience, emphasising the importance of taking baby steps, learning from experienced people and getting outside your comfort zone.In this episode:How Charles accidentally fell into insuranceWhy specialising in D&O changed the trajectory of his careerMaking the move from broking into underwritingTaking on an FI leadership role outside his comfort zoneThe challenges of building and turning around underwriting businessesWhy people are often the hardest part of a turnaroundThe importance of communication and broker relationshipsCharles' transition into the MGA marketThe advantages of an incubator-style MGA modelCurrent dynamics across the D&O and FI marketsWhether commercial D&O and FI should be brought closer togetherHow underwriters can broaden their class experienceWhy taking "baby steps" matters when learning a new productThe importance of concentrating on your strengths and managing your weaknessesWhy getting outside your comfort zone is where you learn and growCharles also reflects on the career decisions that changed his own trajectory and why his biggest advice is simple: when an opportunity comes to step outside your comfort zone, put your hand up and say yes.
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  The Best of Beyond the Desk Season 2: Leadership, Talent & the Future of Insurance 08.09.2026 1j 9min

  What can we learn from the people shaping the future of insurance?In this special highlights episode of Beyond the Desk, Mark Thomas brings together some of the most insightful moments from conversations with senior leaders across the global insurance industry.Across the series, guests have explored everything from leadership and career development to AI, underwriting, talent, culture and the changing insurance market.This episode brings those conversations together, highlighting some of the biggest ideas, lessons and predictions from the people working at the forefront of the industry.In this episode, you'll hear insights from:Nigel Walsh: on the leap of faith it took to move his family to New York for an opportunity at Google and how AI is reshaping underwriting and claims.Christopher Barclay: Imposter syndrome stepping into a CEO role and the moment he realised that being himself was the key to leading successfully.Kirk Southern: on leadership, career development, the evolving role of the Chief People Officer and how businesses can use AI to empower their people.Carys Lawton-Bryce: sharing perspectives on people, culture and the changing world of work.John Wingate: exploring technology, AI and the opportunities emerging from rapid technological change.Sally Peace: discussing culture, leadership and building successful businesses as organisations grow.Simon Jackson: from the Underwriting mini-series, exploring the future of underwriting and the changing role of technology.Talbir Singh Banes: on underwriting leadership, talent and the evolution of the MGA market.Mark Fellows: sharing lessons from a career in underwriting, building teams and developing underwriting businesses.Scott Bailey: discussing underwriting, AI and why human expertise and relationships will continue to matter.Key themes exploredLeadership & career developmentWhy curiosity, humility and a willingness to learn can be more valuable than trying to accelerate your career too quickly. Kirk, for example, reflects on the importance of learning the foundations of a role and the people who helped shape his career.The future of AIHow AI could transform the way insurance businesses operate, while still leaving human judgement, relationships and expertise at the heart of the industry.UnderwritingWhat makes a great underwriter, what makes a great underwriting leader, and how technology can augment rather than replace underwriting expertise.Talent & cultureHow insurance businesses can attract, develop and retain the people they need as the skills required across the industry continue to change.The changing insurance marketFrom the growth of MGAs and delegated authority to changing market cycles and the evolving role of technology, the series explores where the industry could be heading next.Human expertise in an increasingly automated worldOne recurring message throughout the conversations is that technology can remove repetitive work and enhance decision-making, but insurance remains fundamentally a relationship-driven business.The big questionAs technology transforms the way insurance works, what will remain uniquely human?From leadership and culture to underwriting expertise and broker relationships, this episode brings together the ideas that could shape the next chapter of the insurance industry.
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  25 Years in Cyber: Lessons from the Frontline with Scott Bailey 01.09.2026 57min

  In this episode of Beyond the Desk, Underwriting Mini Series, host Sanj Vagad sits down with Scott Bailey, Head of Global Cyber Underwriting at CFC.Scott looks back on a career spanning 25 years in cyber insurance, from joining Click for Cover (later CFC) as employee number two in 2001, through spells at CNA Hardy and Markel, to his return to CFC three and a half years ago. Along the way, he shares how the cyber market was built from scratch, why the SME protection gap remains so wide, where we are in the current pricing cycle, and why AI is both the biggest emerging threat and one of the industry's best defensive tools.Whether you're an underwriter, broker or simply curious about how one of insurance's youngest classes of business came to be, this episode is packed with first-hand insight from one of the market's most experienced cyber leaders.In This Episode You'll LearnHow Scott's career began in car insurance telesales before he joined Click for Cover (later CFC) as employee number two in 2001What it was like building the cyber insurance product from scratch – before regulation, actuarial data, or even market awareness of the risk existedThe lessons learned moving between an MGA (CFC) and carrier platforms (CNA Hardy, Markel)Why Scott returned to CFC after a decade away, and the difference between heading global cyber and heading global cyber underwritingWhy only 10–15% of SMEs in developed economies buy cyber insurance, and what the industry needs to do about itWhere we are in the cyber insurance pricing cycle, and why the market may need to firm up in certain geographiesWhy AI is both the biggest emerging cyber threat and one of the sector's best defensive toolsScott's advice for underwriters early in their career, and why curiosity is the most valuable skill in the marketKey TakeawaysCyber insurance was built from scratch, with 25 years of data now one of CFC's biggest advantages – even though the fast-changing nature of the class limits how much any historical data set can really tell you.MGAs and carriers each carry different risks and rewards; being nimble matters most in a fast-evolving class like cyber.The SME cyber protection gap comes down to education, not price – the best policies offer far more value than indemnity alone.Cyber pricing has softened for three years following the 2021/22 correction, but a well-diversified portfolio matters given the ongoing ransomware and AI threat.AI is a double-edged sword for cyber insurance, a growing attack vector, but also a powerful underwriting and defensive tool.Curiosity and a willingness to ask questions is, in Scott's words, one of the most valuable traits an underwriter can have.If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Beyond the Desk, leave a review and share it with someone in your network.Connect with Sanj Vagad and Scott Bailey on LinkedIn to continue the conversation.
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  Building Underwriting Businesses That Last with Mark Fellows 25.08.2026 50min

  In this episode of Beyond the Desk: Underwriting Edition, Sanjeev Vegad sits down with Mark Fellows, Divisional Director, Financial Lines, International at Westfield Specialty, to explore a career that spans claims, underwriting, leadership, and multiple successful business builds across the London insurance market.Mark shares how he accidentally fell into insurance after university, why a move to Swiss Re completely changed the trajectory of his career, and what he has learned from building underwriting platforms from scratch. He also offers a candid view on the current financial lines market, the rise of broker facilities, and the opportunities and risks that AI presents for the next generation of underwriters.This episode is packed with practical leadership advice, insights into market cycles, and a reminder that deep expertise, curiosity, and strong relationships remain the foundations of great underwriting.In this episode, you'll hear:How Mark went from claims into underwriting almost by accidentWhy he believes leadership is about responsibility, not hierarchyWhat he looks for when hiring underwriters and building high-performing teamsThe realities of launching and growing an underwriting business from zeroHow Westfield Specialty has positioned itself in a highly competitive marketHis perspective on the current soft market and the impact of broker facilitiesWhy AI will transform insurance—but shouldn't replace human judgementThe biggest mistake young underwriters can make in their early careersWhy reading, asking questions, and being in the office still matterThe career advice he wishes he had taken himselfKey takeawaysBuild deep expertise before chasing seniority.Great underwriting teams are built around culture, trust, and collaboration.Differentiation comes from people, service, and execution.AI should enhance underwriting, not replace relationships and judgement.The best opportunities often come from being willing to build something new.Whether you're an underwriting assistant, an experienced underwriter, or a leader looking to build the next successful platform, this conversation offers a thoughtful and practical look at what long-term success in insurance really looks like.
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  Why Every Career Needs Calculated Risks with Talbir Singh Bains 18.08.2026 1j 10min

  In this episode of Beyond the Desk, host Sanjeev Vegad is joined by Talbir Singh Bains, founder of Volante Global and one of the insurance industry's most respected entrepreneurs.Talbir reflects on a career spanning QBE, Willis Re, Swiss Re, Dual and the creation of Volante, sharing the lessons that shaped his leadership philosophy and entrepreneurial mindset.The conversation explores how to build a business that aligns with capital, why culture should be lived rather than written down, the future of MGAs, attracting the next generation of insurance talent, and why the industry's greatest purpose is helping society recover from risk.Whether you're an aspiring leader, underwriter, entrepreneur or simply interested in building great businesses, this episode is packed with practical insights and thought-provoking advice.In this episode you'll learn:How Talbir's career evolved from actuarial pricing into entrepreneurship.The lessons he learned from leaders at QBE, Willis Re, Swiss Re and Dual.Why Volante was built on a fundamentally different business model.How to balance growth with long-term underwriting profitability.Why culture is created through actions—not policies.What makes MGAs so attractive to underwriting talent.Why diversity and young talent are essential for innovation.The qualities future insurance leaders should develop.Why insurance plays a far greater role in society than many people realise.Key TakeawaysSustainable growth always beats growth for growth's sake.The strongest businesses succeed when their interests are fully aligned with their investors and capital partners.Great cultures are built through consistent leadership behaviours, not company policies.Innovation comes from fresh thinking, diverse perspectives and empowering the next generation of leaders.Insurance is ultimately about helping people and businesses recover when the unexpected happens.If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Beyond the Desk, leave a review and share it with someone in your network.Connect with Sanjeev Vegad and Talbir Singh Bains on LinkedIn to continue the conversation.
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  The Future of Underwriting: People, AI and Judgment with Simon Jackson 11.08.2026 53min

  In this special Beyond the Desk: Underwriting Edition, host Sanjeev Vegad sits down with Simon Jackson, CEO of Amwins Underwriting, to discuss what it takes to build high-performing underwriting teams, embrace calculated career risks, and lead through one of the insurance industry's most transformative periods.Drawing on leadership experience at Amlin, Beazley and now Amwins, Simon shares the lessons that have shaped his career, from developing underwriting talent and expanding international teams to navigating the rise of MGAs, artificial intelligence and changing market dynamics.The conversation explores why underwriting remains a people business, how technology should empower rather than replace underwriters, and why curiosity may be the most valuable skill for the next generation entering the profession.Whether you're an aspiring underwriter, experienced market professional or insurance leader, this episode is packed with practical insights on leadership, growth and the future of the industry.In this episode you'll learn:How Simon's career evolved from traditional underwriting into executive leadership.Why the best career moves often involve stepping outside your comfort zone.The difference between being a great underwriter and a great underwriting leader.How AI and technology are changing underwriting without replacing human judgement.Why curiosity and relationship-building remain essential skills.The opportunities and challenges facing MGAs.How to build strong underwriting cultures across multiple locations.Simon's outlook for the future of the Lloyd's and specialty insurance markets.Key TakeawaysThe best leadership opportunities often feel uncomfortable at first.Great underwriters don't automatically become great leaders—leadership requires adaptability and emotional intelligence.Technology should empower underwriters, not replace their judgement.Curiosity, client engagement and relationship-building will always be competitive advantages.Building successful teams starts with culture, trust and empowering people to make decisions.Taking informed career risks often leads to the greatest long-term rewards.Key Advice from SimonStay curious throughout your career.Take calculated risks rather than waiting until you're completely comfortable.Build genuine relationships across the insurance market.Learn the businesses and industries you're underwriting.Adapt your leadership style to your audience.Use technology to make better decisions, not to replace them.
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  From Claims handler to CEO with Chris Barclay 04.08.2026 1j 11min

  What does it actually take to go from growing up in one of Glasgow's most deprived areas to becoming a CEO in the insurance industry without a university degree, without a clear plan, and without ever making CEO your goal?In this episode of Beyond the Desk, Mark Thomas sits down with Chris Barclay, CEO of Superscript, for one of the most candid career conversations the show has delivered. Chris traces 20+ years across claims, loss adjusting, commercial leadership, and insurtech including stints at Norwich Union, Crawford & Company, Thistle, and Marsh before joining Superscript as Chief Commercial Officer and being appointed CEO just over a year ago.Chris opens up about the Glassdoor review that triggered genuine anxiety, the imposter syndrome that hit when he became CEO, the six months he spent trying to be someone else, and what pulled him back to himself. He also shares his take on AI in digital broking Superscript's mantra of "enabled by tech, powered by people" along with his three-year growth roadmap and a frank view on the talent and work ethic challenges facing insurance today.Key topics include: non-traditional career paths in insurance, claims as a leadership foundation, turnaround leadership, CEO transition, mental health and resilience, insurtech strategy, and AI in broking.If you work in insurance technology, broking, or insurtech or you're an ambitious leader trying to figure out what the next step looks like then this one is for you.
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  Why Great Leaders Say Yes Before They're Ready with Sally Peace 28.07.2026 1j 1min

  In this episode of Beyond the Desk, Mark Thomas is joined by Sally Peace, Chief of Staff and HR Director at Apollo, to discuss an unconventional career that has spanned actuarial science, catastrophe modelling, operations, business planning, HR and executive leadership.Sally shares how embracing opportunities, rather than following a rigid career plan, helped shape her journey into one of the most unique leadership roles in the insurance market.The conversation explores leadership, company culture, mentoring, diversity, flexible working, AI's impact on talent, and why saying "yes" before you feel completely ready can be one of the most powerful career decisions you'll ever make.Whether you're leading teams today or aspiring to leadership tomorrow, this episode is packed with practical advice and honest reflections.In this episode you'll learn:Why you don't need a five or ten-year career plan.How sideways career moves often create the best leaders.The difference between management and leadership.Why confidence grows after saying yes not before.How Apollo approaches culture and flexible working.The role HR should really play in shaping a business.Why communication is leadership's most important skill.How AI is changing talent development in insurance.Why mentoring and coaching can accelerate your growth.Key TakeawaysCareers don't have to follow a straight line embrace opportunities that stretch you.Great leaders listen more than they speak.Culture isn't created by HR alone it's everyone's responsibility.Flexible working works best when it's built on trust rather than rigid policies.Confidence comes from doing difficult things, not waiting until you feel ready.AI won't replace great people but it will change the skills organisations need.ConnectIf you enjoyed this episode, make sure you subscribe to Beyond the Desk, leave a review and share it with someone in your network.You can connect with Mark Thomas and Sally Peace on LinkedIn to continue the conversation.
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  How Technology Is Transforming Insurance with John Wingate 21.07.2026 1j 17min

  Episode DescriptionIn this episode of Beyond the Desk, Mark Thomas is joined by John Wingate, Chief Technology Officer at Envelop Risk, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming insurance and why technology should enhance people rather than replace them.John shares his fascinating journey from developing software for Rolls-Royce jet engines and military systems to leading one of the insurance industry's most innovative technology teams.Together, they discuss AI, machine learning, cyber insurance, leadership, communication, and what it really takes to build products that solve meaningful problems.Whether you're interested in technology, insurance, engineering or leadership, this episode offers practical insights into the future of work and innovation.In this episode you'll learn:How John transitioned from aerospace engineering into insurance.Why Envelop Risk has built its own AI-powered underwriting platform.How AI is changing software development and insurance.Why technology should help people make better decisions—not replace them.The biggest opportunities AI presents for insurers.Why communication is an underrated technical skill.What makes a great Chief Technology Officer.How to build high-performing technical teams.Why solving the right problem is more important than solving it quickly.Key TakeawaysGreat technology starts with understanding the problem—not the tool.AI will increase productivity by helping people do more, not simply replacing jobs.Communication is one of the most valuable skills technical leaders can develop.The best CTOs stay close to technology while empowering their teams.Innovation comes from combining technical expertise with deep industry knowledge.Long-term career success comes from choosing interesting problems rather than chasing titles.
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  The Unconventional Road to COO with Carys Lawton-Bryce 14.07.2026 51min

  In this episode of Beyond the Desk, Mark Thomas sits down with Carys Lawton-Bryce, Chief Operations Officer at Markel International, to explore her unconventional journey into executive leadership.From growing up in South Africa to leading large-scale operational transformation across one of the insurance industry's leading organisations, Karis shares how curiosity, calculated risk-taking and a commitment to continuous learning shaped her career.They discuss why leadership isn't about having all the answers, how AI is transforming insurance operations, and the qualities that separate great COOs from good ones.Whether you're aspiring to senior leadership, navigating career decisions, or interested in the future of operations and AI, this episode is packed with practical insights.In this episode you'll learn:Why the best careers rarely follow a straight line.How stepping outside your comfort zone accelerates growth.The lessons Karis learned managing teams outside her technical expertise.Why adding value matters more than chasing job titles.How AI is changing the role of the modern COO.Why Markel rolled out Microsoft Copilot across its workforce.The balance between strategic thinking and operational execution.The leadership qualities Karis believes every executive should develop.Practical advice for anyone aspiring to a C-suite role.Key TakeawaysTake opportunities that help you learn even if they don't make perfect sense on paper.Great leaders don't need all the technical answers; they need to ask the right questions.AI should empower people, not replace them.Career progression isn't about climbing a ladder it's about building experience.Humility, curiosity and a willingness to get your hands dirty remain some of the most valuable leadership traits.
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  What It Really Takes to Become a Chief People Officer with Kirk Southern, Chief People Officer at Howden 07.07.2026 1j 8min

  From a working-class upbringing in South Derbyshire to Chief People Officer at Howden, Kirk Southern shares the experiences, lessons and leadership principles that have shaped his career.In this episode of Beyond the Desk, Kirk discusses his unconventional route into HR, why curiosity and humility have been the biggest drivers of his success, and how the role of the Chief People Officer has evolved from operational HR into a strategic business partner.The conversation explores the future of leadership in an AI-driven world, why insurance remains one of the City's best-kept secrets, and what tomorrow's leaders need to succeed.Whether you're aspiring to the C-suite, leading teams today, or simply interested in the future of work, this episode is packed with practical insights.In this episode, you'll hear:Kirk's journey from recruitment consultant to Chief People Officer at HowdenWhy taking a step backwards can sometimes be the fastest way forwardsThe importance of mentorship, curiosity and learning throughout your careerHow the Chief People Officer role has evolved into a strategic leadership positionWhy insurance is one of the most rewarding industries to build a career inHow AI is changing work and why human judgement will become even more valuableThe leadership skills organisations will need over the next decadePractical advice for anyone aspiring to reach executive leadershipWhy commercial understanding is essential for future leadersThe leadership trait Kirk believes matters more than any other: humilityKey TakeawaysGreat careers are built through patience, not shortcuts.AI should enhance human capability not replace it.Commercial awareness is one of the biggest differentiators for aspiring executives.The best leaders remain curious, humble and open to feedback.Strong organisational cultures are built by investing in people first.Guest: Kirk SouthernChief People Officer at HowdenLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirk-southern-mcipd-01788118/Host: Mark ThomasCo-Founder and Managing Partner at Invecta GroupLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markthomas0/Subscribe to Beyond the Desk for conversations with leaders shaping the future of insurance.
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  Why the Future of Insurance Will Be Orchestrated, Not Built with Nigel Walsh, Global Head of Insurance at ServiceNow 22.06.2026 1j

  In this episode of Beyond the Desk, Mark Thomas is joined by Nigel Walsh, Global Head of Insurance at ServiceNow.Nigel shares his journey from writing 210 letters trying to secure his first position at the start of his career to key leadership positions at some of the world's leading firms, including Capgemini, Deloitte, Google and his current position at ServiceNow.The conversation explores Nigel’s early route into technology, his move into insurance, the lessons he drew from consulting and global technology organisations, and what it was like to help shape Google Cloud’s approach to the insurance market.Mark and Nigel also discuss the next phase of AI in insurance, why the industry is moving beyond isolated pilots, and how agents, workflow orchestration and automation could reshape underwriting, claims and operations over the next 12–18 months.Guest: Nigel WalshGlobal Head of Insurance at ServiceNowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nigelwalsh/Host: Mark ThomasCo-Founder and Managing Partner at Invecta GroupLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markthomas0/Subscribe to Beyond the Desk for conversations with leaders shaping the future of insurance.
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  The Evolution of the CDO Role in Insurance & Navigating the AI hype with Chris Pearce, CDO at esure 08.07.2025 1j 19min

  In this episode of Beyond the Desk, Mark Thomas is joined by Chris Pearce, Chief Data Officer at esure. Chris shares his fascinating journey from a childhood love of video games to leading one of the UK’s most advanced data and AI transformations in the insurance industry.We explore Chris’s academic path from mathematics to a PhD in epidemiology, his early career spanning banking, automotive, and aggregators, and his progression into insurance leadership. Along the way, Chris gives a brutally honest view on the evolution of the CDO role, the hype and reality of AI in production, and how esure has embedded over a dozen generative AI use cases into the frontline of its business.Key topics discussed:Why video games sparked Chris’s interest in problem-solving and led to a career in dataWhat a PhD in epidemiology taught him about resilience, research, and learning how little you knowHis early career in banking, Mercedes-Benz, and MoneySuperMarket and how each built his leadership toolkitEntering insurance with Hastings Direct and building data science teams across pricing, fraud, and claimsBecoming CDO at esure and building an enterprise-wide data and AI capabilityThe differences between 1st-gen and 2nd-gen Chief Data Officer rolesWhat most people misunderstand about driving value from data scienceHow to thrive as a leader without losing your technical edgeWhat 16 GenAI use cases in production actually looks like in practiceWhere the CDO role is heading, and why agentic AI is nextThis is a brilliant insight into the mindset and career history of a modern, new CDO and what's next for data leaders in the insurance sector. Connect with us:Mark Thomas on LinkedIn: Connect HereFollow Beyond the Desk on LinkedIn: Follow HereWatch Full-Length Video Episodes on YouTube HereChris on LinkedIn: Connect HereIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with colleagues who might find it valuable!New episodes drop every Tuesday. Stay tuned for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of insurance and InsureTech. Thanks for tuning in - see you next time on Beyond the Desk! 🎧Sponsor:This episode is brought to you by Invecta Search, the brand new leadership search product from Invecta Group, which leads the insurance industry in building best-in-class technology and transformation leadership teams.
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  From Corporate Tech Leader to Independent: How David Clamp took to leap and ended up building The Camelot Network 01.07.2025 1j 8min

  In this episode of Beyond the Desk, Mark Thomas is joined by David Clamp Founder of The Camelot Network, a network of independent consultants serving the insurance sector. From apprentice electronic engineer to insurance transformation leader and founder of a thriving network of 150+ independent experts, David Clamp’s career path has had some key milestones and changes in direction. In this episode, David shares the pivotal moments that shaped his journey, the birth of The Camelot Network, and his mission to reinvent what it means to be an independent advisor in insurance.We dive into:Leaving corporate life and embracing risk at 50Building The Camelot Network from a pub meetup to a market forceBridging the gap between insurance and insurtechWhat makes a successful independent consultantThe future of AI, data, and operating models in insuranceConnect with us:Mark Thomas on LinkedIn: Connect HereFollow Beyond the Desk on LinkedIn: Follow HereWatch Full-Length Video Episodes on YouTube HereDavid on LinkedIn: Connect HereIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with colleagues who might find it valuable!New episodes drop every Tuesday. Stay tuned for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of insurance and InsureTech. Thanks for tuning in - see you next time on Beyond the Desk! 🎧Sponsor:This episode is brought to you by Invecta Search, the brand new leadership search product from Invecta Group, which leads the insurance industry in building best-in-class technology and transformation leadership teams. Find out more: www.invectagroup.com
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  Not Your Typical CTO - Taking a different path to insurance tech leadership with Daren Rudd, VP Insurance Consulting at CGI 24.06.2025 55min

  In this episode of Beyond the Desk, Mark Thomas is joined by Daren Rudd, Head of Insurance Business and Technology Consulting at CGI. Daren is a self-proclaimed "non-traditional CTO" whose route into insurance technology started not with a computer science degree, but a geography course and a job in marketing. Daren's path is a masterclass in curiosity, resilience and leadership that prioritises strategic impact over ego or titles.We delve into the pivotal moments that have shaped his 30+ year career, including a decade at Hiscox, a stint at Brit, the leap into consulting, and his current leadership role at CGI. Along the way, we explore how insurance businesses are tackling modernisation, the risks of layering AI on legacy, and why tech leaders need to stop pretending they have all the answers.Whether you're a current or aspiring leader, Daren's story offers an honest and refreshingly practical view on what good leadership actually looks like in insurance tech today.Key topics we cover include: Why Daren swapped marketing for tech (with no formal background)What makes a great BA and why it's not just a stepping stoneLeading without being the expert: lessons in facilitationThe danger of "AI as a silver bullet" for legacy systemsWhat today’s insurance clients really need: clarity, resilience, and pragmatismConnect with us:Mark Thomas on LinkedIn: Connect HereFollow Beyond the Desk on LinkedIn: Follow HereWatch Full-Length Video Episodes on YouTube HereDaren on LinkedIn: Connect HereIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with colleagues who might find it valuable!New episodes drop every Tuesday. Stay tuned for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of insurance and InsureTech. Thanks for tuning in - see you next time on Beyond the Desk! 🎧Sponsor:This episode is brought to you by Invecta Search, the brand new leadership search product from Invecta Group, which leads the insurance industry in building best-in-class technology and transformation leadership teams. Find out more: www.invectagroup.com
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  Exploring the evolution of the insurance CTO with Paul Butler, CTO at Hiscox Re & ILS 17.06.2025 55min

  In this episode of Beyond the Desk, Mark Thomas by Paul Butler, newly appointed CTO of Hiscox Re & ILS and former CTO of Hiscox London Market. Paul’s journey is anything but typical. From writing code as a teenager on a ZX Spectrum to launching tech for startups in Borough Market and leading reinsurance innovation at one of the most recognised names in the London Market, his story is full of surprises, learnings, and sharp insights.We dive into:Why coming from outside insurance gave Paul the right tools for success inside itHow he scaled a startup from 10 to 350 people while battling burnoutThe pivot from project to product thinking at HiscoxHow hiring for attitude (not just skillset) helped him build high-impact teamsWhat he learned from selling data products to hedge fundsThe future of insurance automation and why underwriters still matterPlus, Paul shares his take on flow engineering, embracing multi-cloud, and loads more. Connect with us:Mark Thomas on LinkedIn: Connect HereFollow Beyond the Desk on LinkedIn: Follow HereWatch Full-Length Video Episodes on YouTube HerePaul on LinkedIn: Connect HereIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with colleagues who might find it valuable!New episodes drop every Tuesday. Stay tuned for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of insurance and InsureTech. Thanks for tuning in - see you next time on Beyond the Desk! 🎧Sponsor:This episode is brought to you by Invecta Search, the brand new leadership search product from Invecta Group, which leads the insurance industry in building best-in-class technology and transformation leadership teams. Find out more: www.invectagroup.com
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  Neural Networks to Insurtech with Krishnan Ethirajan, Chief Digital & AI Officer at Mosaic Insurance 10.06.2025 1j 5min

  In this episode of Beyond the Desk, Mark Thomas is joined by Krishnan Ethirajan, Chief Digital & AI Officer at Mosaic Insurance. Krishnan shares his fascinating journey from studying neural networks in the 1980s to leading cutting-edge AI initiatives in the global insurance sector. With a background that spans academia, consulting, and executive leadership, Krishnan's career is anything but linear. Together, they explore pivotal moments in his personal and professional life, how early exposure to neuroscience shaped his thinking on AI, and why staying uncomfortable is often the best place to grow.Key Topics Covered:Growing up in India and pursuing engineeringStudying AI and brain cognition in the 1980sBuilding a PhD from scratch at University of HoustonEarly neural networks and NASA-funded researchSelling his first company at 26 and choosing not to retireTransition from academia to John Deere to AllstateMoving into consulting with Gartner and PwCBecoming CEO of Ironshore after being their consultantFounding Mosaic Insurance in the middle of the pandemicDriving value through AI, tech and strategic innovationHow to build differentiated, future-facing AI in insuranceFrom brain plasticity and robotics to insurance operations and AI-led underwriting, this is an episode filled with thoughtful reflection, practical advice, and inspiring insights. Whether you're a tech leader, aspiring executive, or someone curious about where AI and insurance intersect, this is not one to missConnect with us:Mark Thomas on LinkedIn: Connect HereFollow Beyond the Desk on LinkedIn: Follow HereWatch Full-Length Video Episodes on YouTube HereKrishnan on LinkedIn: Connect HereIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with colleagues who might find it valuable!New episodes drop every Tuesday. Stay tuned for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of insurance and InsureTech. Thanks for tuning in - see you next time on Beyond the Desk! 🎧Sponsor:This episode is brought to you by Invecta Search, the brand new leadership search product from Invecta Group, which leads the insurance industry in building best-in-class technology and transformation leadership teams. Find out more: www.invectagroup.com
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  Building a COO Career from Code to Strategy with Ketan Motwani, COO at Arch Insurance 03.06.2025 1j 6min

  In this week's episode of Beyond the Desk, Mark Thomas is joined by Ketan Motwani, COO at Arch Insurance, for a rich and refreshingly candid conversation about career reinvention, resilience, and rising through transformation. From rebelling at school in India to being parachuted into boardrooms in the UK, Ketan’s story spans military training, software engineering, Deloitte consulting, and executive leadership at Aon and Arch.Key Topics Covered:From physics to the Indian Army to Deloitte: an unconventional startHow transformation became his leadership DNAMaking the shift from consulting to industry (and how having twins was the catalyst)The evolution of the COO role — and why it’s not one-size-fits-allEmbedding AI as part of a broader operating model shiftAdvice for aspiring COOs on building a rounded careerWe unpack the pivotal decisions that shaped his journey, the mindset shift required to go from change agent to COO, and why the London Market's data challenge is today’s biggest opportunity. Whether you’re an aspiring leader, a transformation junkie, or just love a great story - there’s something in here for you.Connect with us:Mark Thomas on LinkedIn: Connect HereFollow Beyond the Desk on LinkedIn: Follow HereWatch Full-Length Video Episodes on YouTube HereKetan on LinkedIn: Connect HereIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with colleagues who might find it valuable!New episodes drop every Tuesday. Stay tuned for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of insurance and InsureTech. Thanks for tuning in - see you next time on Beyond the Desk! 🎧Sponsor:This episode is brought to you by Invecta Search, the brand new leadership search product from Invecta Group, which leads the insurance industry in building best-in-class technology and transformation leadership teams. Find out more: www.invectagroup.com
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  Decoding the Insurance CIO Journey with Arvinder Mudhar, Group CIO at IQUW 27.05.2025 1j 7min

  In this weeks episode of Beyond the Desk, Mark Thomas sits down with Arvinder Mudhar, Group CIO of IQUW, whose career spans investment banking, global tech transformation, and the intricacies of the insurance world. From his first lines of BASIC code in East London to leading IT strategies across Mumbai, Geneva, and now London, Arvinder's journey is anything but typical.Key topics that we discussed include:Why he never planned to be a leader, and how he found his way into the CIO chairThe biggest cultural shift he experienced when moving from banking to insuranceHow bereavement counselling and career coaching shaped him into a better leaderHis view on AI as the most profound shift in tech in our lifetimeWhy insurance needs a CMO for the next generationThis episode is packed with practical advice for anyone considering a career in tech leadership, as well as deeply human insights into how people grow, change and lead through challenge.Connect with us:Mark Thomas on LinkedIn: Connect HereFollow Beyond the Desk on LinkedIn: Follow HereWatch Full-Length Video Episodes on YouTube HereArvinder on LinkedIn: Connect HereIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with colleagues who might find it valuable!New episodes drop every Tuesday. Stay tuned for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of insurance and InsureTech. Thanks for tuning in - see you next time on Beyond the Desk! 🎧Sponsor:This episode is brought to you by Invecta Search, the brand new leadership search product from Invecta Group, which leads the insurance industry in building best-in-class technology and transformation leadership teams. Find out more: www.invectagroup.com
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  Hélène Stanway on the Leap from Leadership to Independent Advisor 20.05.2025 1j 6min

  In this week’s episode of Beyond the Desk, Mark Thomas sits down with Hélène Stanway independent advisor and former Head of Digital & Innovation at AXA XL. With a career spanning more than 30 years across reinsurance, operations, digital innovation, and data, Hélène has carved a truly unique path through the insurance industry.In this wide-ranging conversation, we unpack her zigzag career journey, how curiosity led her into the world of insurtech and emerging tech, and why she's convinced insurance doesn’t have a technology problem but an adoption problem. From reinsurance recoveries in Farnborough to spearheading global innovation strategies and now advising organisations across the market, Helene shares wisdom on leading transformation, creating space for change, and making the leap to work independently.Key topics discussed:How Hélène intentionally chose insurance (yes, really!) and started in outwards reinsuranceThe pivotal moment RPA sparked her passion for innovationTransitioning from global operations to a digital innovation leadership role at AXA XLWhy success in innovation starts with structure, not just ideasThe secret to driving adoption in legacy-heavy environmentsWhat most insurers are getting wrong about AI and talent strategyWhy insurers must think beyond efficiency and start solving for growthThe reality of becoming an independent advisor - and the challenges of BD without playing golfThe power of breadth over linear career pathsHélène’s call for insurance to become service-led, not just product-ledThis is a fascinating story of career evolution and how you can flip what you are doing quickly, the challenges that change presents and whole lot more. Connect with us:Mark Thomas on LinkedIn: Connect HereFollow Beyond the Desk on LinkedIn: Follow HereWatch Full-Length Video Episodes on YouTube HereHélène on LinkedIn: Connect HereIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with colleagues who might find it valuable!New episodes drop every Tuesday. Stay tuned for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of insurance and InsureTech. Thanks for tuning in - see you next time on Beyond the Desk! 🎧Sponsor:This episode is brought to you by Invecta Search, the brand new leadership search product from Invecta Group, which leads the insurance industry in building best-in-class technology and transformation leadership teams. Find out more: linkedin.com/company/invecta-group