IFSDG: How long have you worked in Lockton LLP?
Maria: I have worked with Lockton for
just short of two and a half years.
IFSDG: How many people work at Lockton
LLP?
Maria: Lockton Global employs over 7,500
people in over 90 offices worldwide. In Scotland we have offices in
Glasgow, Edinburgh and Aberdeen and employ 40 associates, of which
18 are based in Glasgow. We are always looking for quality talent
to expand our team.
IFSDG: What is the vision for Lockton LLP in
Glasgow?
Maria: To be the leading and best
recognised corporate Insurance broker in Scotland; one which
provides bespoke insurance solutions for all existing and
prospective clients.
IFSDG: What's a typical day for you?
Maria: I do not have a typical day which
is a huge attraction of my role. The only common theme is engaging
consistently with both clients and future clients, though their
needs and requirements will differ.
My routine is best described as;
- Start early checking emails from the night before, particularly
from my overseas colleagues who help me handle the business of our
international clients.
- Liaise with the wider Lockton team to ensure we are prepared
for the day ahead.
- Meet clients to discuss their risk objectives.
- Answer any queries with regards to proposed or ongoing
contracts.
- Liaise with insurers to ensure our clients are fully protected
against the current and future risks they face.
- Ensure the team is delivering on all promises - honesty and
integrity is everything to me.
- At some point, I hope, grab a sandwich and coffee!
IFSDG: Why did Lockton LLP choose to locate in the
IFSD in Glasgow?
Maria: Glasgow is Scotland's capital for
the general insurance industry, so when the opportunity arose three
years ago to move office, moving into a prestigious office in the
Financial Services District was a no brainer.
There are already some fantastic local, national and
international companies represented in the Financial Services
District and Lockton Corporate Scotland is proud to be part of its
growing success.
Glasgow is unique when it comes to our people. We are recognised
across the globe as friendly, supportive and genuinely interested
in others. I have personally experienced these wonderful traits
when engaging with other professional services firms within the
city.
As they say, 'People Make Glasgow'.
IFSDG: Three good things about working in
Glasgow?
Maria: The people, the business
opportunities and, of course, the shops.
IFSDG: What is your biggest business achievement
to date?
Maria: Being recently promoted to Account
Executive for one of the world's largest corporate broking
firms.
IFSDG: What is the best investment you ever
made?
Maria: My dishwasher!
IFSDG: Which businessperson or company do you most
admire and why?
Maria: Walt Disney, or the Disney
Corporation, as it continues to thrive on success after almost 100
years in business. I admire how it is consistently successful as a
business while bringing happiness both to adults and children
through its movies and theme parks.
IFSDG: What did you want to be when you were a
child?
Maria: A designer….and I have a Blue
Peter badge to prove it.
IFSDG: What do you do to relax away from the
office?
Maria: I like to spend time with my
family and dog. I also enjoy walking.
IFSDG: I-Phone or Android?
Maria: I-phone.
IFSDG: Favourite band?
Maria: Difficult one, as I am generally a
music lover and listen to a wide variety of artists. If I had to
choose, my all-time favourite would be Take
That.
IFSDG: Favourite sport?
Maria: Football, for which I blame my
eight brothers. I also enjoy watching rugby.
IFSDG: Favourite movie?
Maria: Pretty Woman.
IFSDG: Sunshine or snow?
Maria: Sunshine.
IFSDG: ...and finally, what three words sum you
up?
Maria: Ambitious, Caring and Fun.