Insider profil
Keen to receive questions about
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
Career path
Senior Risk Manager
Phoenix Group
Started 02/2020 to PresentAudit supervisor
Deloitte
From 09/1995 to 02/2000Company
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
Serena W
Regulatory Analysis & Support Team Manager
Top Insider Advice
Have go......what have you got to lose!
Simon I
Facilities Project Manager
Top Insider Advice
Always have a career plan, no matter how vague and set your self targets/goals that you want. Be flexible though, as sometimes you may need to take an indirect route to get to your next goal. Opportunities will come along that might not be an exact fit to the plan, sometimes you will use your head and other times your heart to choose whether to take up an opportunity but keep the plan in the back of your mind at all times. Its good to always consult your friends or colleagues, be prepared to be challenged, embrace this though, do not fight it. You should always listen and take account of both sides an argument, that way you can make and take informed decisions and actions. No such thing as failure and do not be afraid to make mistakes, no matter how careful you are, they will happen, so don't stress it, use that energy for getting things done. When mistakes do happen, own them, be accountable and learn from them. Your mistakes and those made by others are all part of what makes you. They are as important was your successes and make sure you add them to your building experience and knowledge. These lessons can be applied anywhere and will increase your personal resilience. You own your career, no one else, take those opportunities that fit.
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.
