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David B.

Senior Risk Manager

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Audit, Compliance & Risk
Projects and Programme management
Strategy and Planning

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Top Insider Advice

Only you will truly know yourself and what you do and do not like. When you are deciding on a role you have to weigh up is it appropriate for you, but also what is your 'gut feel'. Not just about the role, but the people and organisation. You will spend many years of your life in the workplace, so it is critical you enjoy what you do. I have been fortunate in that 95% of time I have loved the work, experiences and people I have worked with. There will always be tasks we don't quiet enjoy, but it is my fondness for the role which has kept me here for 22 years

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Career path

Audit supervisor

Deloitte

From 09/1995 to 02/2000

Senior Risk Manager

Phoenix Group

Started 02/2020 to Present

Company

What do you like about your job and the company?

I am naturally an inquisitive person with a keen eye for the detail for both what is and what is not there. These are key attributes for audit work and by being able to delve into the detail whilst retaining the bigger picture overview from my experience gained, I feel I am able to add value. However, finding things is only part of the picture, with how you communicate this equally important. Being able to leverage and build relationships in support of this is a key factor which makes the role so enjoyable.

Greatest achievements

In 2014 I project managed delivery of a fundamental change to our retirement proposition at the time. This entailed the use of a panel of annuity providers rather than writing in house annuities. Delivery entailed coordination of numerous individuals and workstreams including third parties, new website build, tools to aid customers in decision making and contractual negotiations. Whilst incredibly stretching it built out my skillset and provided a huge sense of satisfaction when it delivered and went live. It built my relationships around the business both existing and with new individuals, which continue to endure to this day

Other insiders

Grainne M

Top Insider Advice

I was once told your network is not everyone you know but instead everyone you have helped as these are the people who are likely to help you when need be. This was excellent advice. Always help others when you have the capacity to do so, of course your day job still must be done also which is where this can get challenging but also doable! It is often tasks outside of my job description I find rewarding. On top of this it is great for both personal and career development to work across different functions when given the opportunity.

Josh R

Senior Accountant

Top Insider Advice

The key advice I have given to all applicants and new starters is that Phoenix is a company where your opportunities are significant and plentiful. The key to capitalising on this is to be proactive, take the time to understand and reflect on your goals and achievements and communicate openly and honestly with the team around you about how you want to progress/operate within the business. The business can be fast paced and although all the resources and help are made available, it is incredibly important to make yourself accountable and seek the information you need for yourself. People are always willing to support you here but have respect for those who have taken the time to consider their requirements carefully and actively seek support before it becomes a critical requirement.

Serena W

Regulatory Analysis & Support Team Manager

Top Insider Advice

Have go......what have you got to lose!

Discussions with David B
What advice would you give to someone preparing for a final stage interview?
in Career Tips·Wednesday, January 25, 2023
1 response
471 views
what is the best thing about working at Phoenix and also as senior risk manager ?
in Career Tips·Tuesday, March 21, 2023
1 response
414 views
What's your top tip for doing well at interview?
in Career Tips·Tuesday, May 9, 2023
Picture of Kieran
2 responses
195 views
What do you think is unique about working here?
in Career Tips·Tuesday, December 13, 2022
1 response
158 views