Allianz Partners Academy Update

Insurance can sometimes seem like an older persons industry, which is why it needs younger apprentices. Here’s some news from Allianz;

The apprenticeship programme launched in January 2021, is a key part of the Allianz Partners Academy training offering. Nearly a year in, it’s successfully nurturing broking talent as learner feedback proves resoundingly positive.

It’s currently supporting 22 brokers who are committed to continuing their professional development and going the extra mile to be fit for the future demands of the industry. The programme is the only one of its type to be supporting brokers at three key levels over a number of years:

• Insurance Practitioner – entry level programme for those looking to develop their career in the insurance industry and achieve the Certificate Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) qualification.
• Insurance Professional – a development pathway which allows candidates to specialise in a particular area of the insurance industry with supporting qualification at Diploma level.
• Senior Insurance Professional – develops skills needed to succeed at a senior level in the insurance industry and complete Associateship (ACII) level qualifications.

Now the apprentices are almost one year in, they’ve shared their experiences and thoughts on the programme which was developed with specialist apprenticeship training provider, Davies Learning Solutions.

Hannah Hendricks of Fairweather Insurance said the apprenticeship is “a great programme to be involved in.

She said: “Having a coach has been a great help as she has pushed me and supported me throughout, and never made me feel there is something I can’t do. She has opened my eyes up to how big the world of insurance is and helped me to consider where I want to be, and how I can get there.”

Meanwhile, George Worby of Daines Kapp Insurance Brokers Limited described the programme as “so much more” than just support for him working towards his Cert CII.

“The one-to-one coaching sessions are interactive and thought provoking, as well as helping to guide me through,” he said. “They have made me think about my position in my company and how I can contribute, from simple day-to-day activities to comprehensive processes.

“The Apprenticeship gives me the opportunity to confirm, develop and add to my understanding of the insurance industry and my skills. It is playing a big part in the start of my career, and in me becoming a more well-rounded professional in insurance broking. It is the perfect accompaniment to my job.”

Nick Hobbs, chief distribution and regions officer at Allianz Insurance commented: “The enthusiasm from this group of apprentices is very encouraging, and proves that this scheme has been well worth undertaking.

“Finding and nurturing the future leaders and pioneers of the insurance industry is a crucial part of sharpening expertise together.”

Carolyn Blunt, growth & client success director, Davies Learning Solutions, said:

“Davies Learning Solutions is delighted that both Allianz and their broker network are benefiting from the Insurance apprenticeship journey. The value of developing the knowledge, skills and behaviours required of the Insurance apprenticeship in addition to professional industry qualifications is really shining through. The expertise and support of our coaches continues to be one of the primary success factors in achievements, and all of us at Davies take real job satisfaction in watching the next generation of insurance talent flourish.”

To find out more about the Allianz Partners Academy training offering for brokers, head to Allianz.co.uk/broker.