Every month we pose 7 questions to a Chamber member, this time it’s Sophie Jones, Client Director for Howden.
1. Who are you?
Sophie Jones, Client Director for Howden, an insurance broker with head offices in London, and offices all over the UK and all over the world.
2. How long have you been in business?
I’ve been in insurance in one way or another for about 18 years! I’ve moved around the industry, working in HNW and Commercial broking, Captives, marketing, brand and events, and back to HNW broking.
3. How did you get into this?
By accident. I started my insurance journey in Guernsey after coming to the island for a couple of months during the summer in between ski seasons in France. The island lured me back and then I made myself a bet on how quickly I could get my ACII completed (because I like a challenge?!)…and the rest is history.
4. What’s the ‘why’ behind the work you do?
Insurance is a funny old thing. Not the most exciting of subjects to talk about, and certainly not what I saw myself doing when I grew up. But it’s inherently based on relationships – both with clients and with insurers – and that’s the part I enjoy. I also really like to solve a problem, so knowing I have provided the right insurance solution for my clients gives me a good feeling, as does knowing I have got the best terms and prices available through my relationships with underwriters! I also really love the heart that sits at the core of Howden. We’re a company who understand the importance of supporting communities around the world, and also seeing that we are in a position to help people. It’s a complete joy to know that I am working for a company that shares my viewpoint on the world, and the importance of making the right choices.
5. What’s your process for coming up with your solutions/offers?
I’m a thinker. I think about things from all angles until the answer appears and makes sense. I’m a bit of a perfectionist, so I like to make sure the plan I go with is the best and most straightforward option available, whether that’s an insurance solution for a client, or an event, or anything really.
6. What book has shaped your life and why?
I’m a bit of a dork when it comes to all things ancient Greek and Roman. I have read the Iliad quite a few times, and I think it might have been that book that pushed my decision to study Classics at Uni. That’s a journey that has taken me to a lot of places and introduced me to a lot of people.
7. Tea, Coffee or something a little stronger?
I love a good cup of coffee in the morning….and maybe a nice glass of rose in the evening!
