Edinburgh institute supports local student

The Insurance Society of Edinburgh has recently helped a local economics student gain work experience at two insurance offices across Scotland.

Whilst studying at the University of Edinburgh, Bruce Gorrie discovered he had an interest for insurance and specifically insurance underwriting.

Keen to progress this interest and wanting to find out more about the profession in Scotland, Bruce contacted Michael Hashim, President of the Insurance Society of Edinburgh to ask for help and advice on potentially working in the sector.

After meeting Bruce to discuss potential career paths, Michael was able to arrange two ‘taster’ days within the offices of RSA and Liverpool Victoria in Glasgow. Both taster days provided Bruce with an overview of how an underwriter’s office operates whilst giving him the opportunity to question and network with a number of key individuals from across the profession.

Bruce commented: "During both taster sessions I was introduced to both organisations underwriting footprint whilst gaining an understanding of the various sectors. The experience has given me an excellent insight into the profession.”

After being asked for feedback, both companies were extremely pleased with Bruce’s eagerness to learn and his passion for the industry.

David McCallum, Regional Manager, RSA Scotland commented: “At RSA we believe that talented people give us our competitive edge, that’s why we like to take a rigorous approach to identifying and nurturing talent. We are committed to attracting new talent to the industry and offer a number of routes into RSA, such as work experience and apprenticeship programmes to show young people the exciting and fulfilling career opportunities this industry can offer”.

With The Insurance Society of Edinburgh President Michael Hashim stating: “The ISoE has many important functions, but none more so than promoting and advocating the industry itself. Both the ISoE council and I are passionate about ensuring that young people today view the insurance, life and pensions sectors as a viable and lucrative career choices and we will continue to assist those who seek our help in progressing into the industry”.