Malcolm’s career in insurance spans over 40 years, starting off as a filing clerk straight out of school. His journey has seen him rise through the ranks to become the head of the personal lines department at his first company, before moving on to roles at Swinton Insurance, Time to Insure and the Civil Service Insurance Society. But his most significant career shift came when he moved to Spain for 22 years to become a marine insurance underwriter.
Two decades as an underwriter in Spain
With his mother and stepfather already living there, Malcolm made the decision to move to Spain and support his stepfather who owned a marine insurance business. Despite never learning Spanish fluently, he built a successful career working with English-speaking clients and managing a team that handled the Spanish side of the business. However, after 22 years of dealing with scorching summers and a difficult work-life balance, Malcolm decided it was time to return to the UK.
Discovering Coversure
Returning to the UK, Malcolm knew he wanted to stay in the insurance industry but didn’t want to work for someone else. His search led him to Coversure, where he found the opportunity to run his own business with the backing and support of a trusted network. The compliance support, particularly, was a significant selling point. As Malcolm transitioned from Spain’s slightly more relaxed regulatory environment to the more structured UK system, he appreciated that Coversure would support him with the complicated compliance aspects, allowing him to focus on growing his business.
Launching Herne Bay’s specialist marine insurance brokerage
In November 2024, Malcolm opened the first-ever Coversure office specialising in marine insurance in Herne Bay, combining his 22 years of expertise with the resources and support of the Coversure network. He quickly recognised the potential for growth in this niche market and is already laying the groundwork for the office to become the hub for marine cover.
Beyond marine insurance, Malcolm aims to create a local, community-focused brokerage where clients can drop in for a coffee, discuss their policies and get personalised advice. His goal is to build organic growth through strong local relationships.
Mentorship and support from Coversure
Malcolm’s onboarding experience with Coversure was made easier thanks to his dedicated Franchise Development Executive, Gareth Robb, and a solid mentorship from Dan Hurley, Managing Director at Coversure Ringwood and Coversure Milton Keynes. Having someone who has already navigated the early challenges of starting a brokerage helped Malcolm feel supported and reassured that the tough first year would eventually lead to a thriving business.
What does the future hold?
Looking ahead, Malcolm has plans to increase awareness of his services locally and possibly open an additional office further north. His advice to others considering joining the Coversure network? “It’s scary, but just do it. You’ll get out of it what you put in. And having a mentor is invaluable.”
