The Graduate Experience

Emily Brimson, Chaucer Syndicates Ltd.

DEGREE COURSE
BSc Hons. Geography and Management at Loughborough University

ENTRY TO LLOYD'S MARKET
Towards the end of my studies, I was unsure of what market I wanted to work in and where I wanted to go from university. I started looking for jobs on career and graduate websites and it was here that I came across the opportunity of working within the Lloyd's Market. At this point, I knew little about Lloyd's or the London Market. I started researching the industry and was impressed with the diversity at Lloyd's, the global span of risks and its long standing traditions. Following this, I applied for graduate schemes within the market, and was offered an interview at Chaucer Syndicates. I was impressed with the company as a whole, along with the people I met at both my assessment day and interviews, who were all friendly and welcoming.

WHAT HAVE I DONE SINCE I JOINED?
I have now been with Chaucer for over a year and I have really enjoyed my time. The graduate scheme works on a rotational basis, with 2-3 month secondments in a number of departments across the business. This approach has given me exposure to a variety of different business areas such as Reinsurance, Underwriting Support, Actuarial, Risk Management, and Third Party Syndicate Management. I still have just under a year left on the scheme, where I will continue on the rotations with a final extended secondment with the Property Division. These rotations have given me the chance to meet and work with a wide range of people, to acquire a variety of skills and the chance to gain experience in different areas of insurance.

On top of these rotations, professional development has been strongly encouraged. I am studying towards my ACII qualification, with full support from my employer, enabling me to enhance my knowledge and assist in future career development.

INTERESTS (INSIDE / OUTSIDE WORK)
Outside of work Chaucer has an active social scheme with regular social events and the chance to participate in social and community programmes. I was part of the team who entered the Total Objects Insurance Industry Challenge, a charity event which included a cycle race, running race and dragon boat race. I am part of the Chaucer netball team who compete in an inter city league, playing matches at lunchtime, with training organised every few weeks.