035: Navigating International Insurance Careers with Catherine Farnworth

This episode is sponsored by Arthur Recruitment.

Summary

Catherine Farnworth, Chief Actuary for UK and Europe at DUAL Group, shares her experiences as an 'insurance nomad' and offers insights on moving and working in different countries.

She emphasises the importance of considering both professional and personal factors when deciding to move, as well as maintaining a network and having a way back if needed.

Three key turning points in her career include her accidental move to Bermuda, transitioning from actuarial to risk to broaden her experience, and then returning to her actuarial roots to refocus on analytics.

These experiences shaped her career and provided valuable exposure and opportunities. In this conversation, Catherine discusses the different stages of her career and the importance of being flexible and open to new opportunities.

She emphasises the need to define success on your own terms and finding a balance between work and personal life.

Catherine also highlights the importance of building authentic relationships in the insurance industry and being true to oneself as a leader.

Takeaways

• Consider both professional and personal factors when deciding to move to another country
• Maintain a strong network and integrate into the local community
• Have a plan for a way back (if needed)
• Accidental opportunities can lead to valuable experiences and career growth
• Transitioning to different roles within the industry can provide new perspectives and opportunities
• Exposure to senior executives and building a network can accelerate career development
• Be open to new opportunities and be willing to take risks in your career
• Define success on your own terms
• Build authentic relationships in the insurance industry based on mutual respect and trust
• Embrace your authentic self and be true to your values and beliefs as a leader
• Imposter syndrome is common, but learning to live with it and having tools to manage it can help

About the sponsor

Are you ready to take your insurance career or business to the next level?

Meet Arthur, your trusted insurance search and recruitment partner. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Arthur specialises in connecting top talent with the biggest names in insurance. They can help you with your next career step or offer dynamic hiring solutions to help you achieve lasting success.

Discover how Arthur can take your career or business to the next level at arthur.co.uk or call 0203 5877 234.