Yes OK, we admit that nobody sits their GCSEs and says “I dream of a career in insurance.” We get that, it’s an image problem, you wanna be a rapper, influencer or juzz up old houses and make a fortune like the people on the tellybox.
But careers in the industry can be paid well enough to fund a house one day, a family life, car and more. It is a thriving sector of the UK economy. So here’s the latest from the Wiser Academy, the award-winning provider of insurance training and development, as they announce a groundbreaking partnership with Hedron Network, part of Brown & Brown, to tackle the insurance talent shortage.
The first-of-its-kind initiative, designed exclusively for Hedron Network partner brokers, will provide members with a pipeline of next-generation talent, supported by specialist recruitment, as well as a comprehensive programme to upskill and reskill existing staff.
Crescens George, CEO of Wiser Academy, commented: “Demand for skilled insurance professionals is rapidly outpacing supply, creating a talent gap that impacts service quality and profitability. Wiser Academy will support Hedron in tackling this by delivering a comprehensive training model, equipping new and existing insurance professionals with technical expertise, critical skills, and better customer service abilities for the future.”
Talent acquisition programme
The initiative’s talent acquisition programme is structured around four core stages:
· Attracting new talent: By partnering with educational institutions and utilising UCAS, Wiser Academy sources a diverse pool of qualified young professionals to begin their careers in insurance. Through these pathways, broker vacancies are able to reach millions of school and college leavers. Candidates are then screened thoroughly by Wiser Academy’s recruiters, and a comprehensive report is passed to the broker’s hiring manager.
· Bootcamp training: Successful new recruits undergo a two-day intensive bootcamp covering industry essentials such as terminology, compliance, market structure, and foundational product knowledge, preparing them to transition smoothly into their roles.
· In-house broker training: After bootcamp, recruits return to their respective brokers for tailored training that integrates specific business systems, processes, and product knowledge.
· Professional development and qualifications: Within the initial months, Wiser Academy supports new recruits in achieving industry-recognised certifications, including Cert CII, Dip CII, and ACII qualifications.
Upskilling and reskilling programme
Wiser Academy will also offer upskilling and reskilling pathways to members’ staff, including providing technical and business competence development programmes. Programmes are tailored to fit individual career paths and the operational goals of each broker.
Chris Haggart, CEO of Hedron Network, said: “We know from feedback received from within our broker community that attracting and retaining talent is one of the biggest risks to growth. Fronting up to that challenge by developing our own talent is a valuable strategy, and one that we know is already working for those brokers who are investing in upskilling their teams. We’re pleased to be partnering with a proven specialist in Wiser Academy to support our partner brokers in this critical area.”
The initiative’s flexible model accommodates the unique requirements of each broker, with options for both in-person and virtual sessions. All programmes are eligible for government funding through the Apprenticeship Levy, making quality training accessible to brokers without significant financial outlays.
Crescens added: “Our mission is to be more than just a training provider; we are strategic partners in our clients’ growth. Together with Hedron, we’re tackling the talent shortage directly, and making sure that brokers have access to a well-prepared, motivated workforce that’s ready to deliver to the highest standards.”
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