COVERED IN 15

Growing your business with Richard Coleman from Ecclesiastical (audio podcast)

Run time: 15:52
Description:
Join us for this episode of Covered in 15, where our host Geoff Turner talks with Richard Coleman, Managing Director at Ecclesiastical General Insurance UK about embracing ambitious business growth plans and the challenges along the way.
They explore the importance of purpose-driven leadership and share valuable insights on discovering your ‘why’, building on existing strengths, and fostering a culture of innovation and risk-taking. Richard also reflects on his leadership journey at Ecclesiastical, discussing the company’s remarkable growth, navigating market changes, and overcoming the challenges posed by the pandemic.
Quote:
Richard Coleman on planning a growth journey:
“...Find your way, make it really personal, figure out your strengths and those few things that you want to try and change, and then try and create the culture where you can have that open dialog about what you're collectively trying to achieve and the bumps you will get along the way and accept them as real, powerful things for you.”
Resources:
Find out more information about Ecclesiastical’s products and purpose-driven approach to business.
About the Guest:
Richard Coleman is Managing Director at Ecclesiastical General Insurance UK. Since joining in 2020, he has led the organisation through a period of transformative growth, focusing on building a purpose-driven culture and expanding into new markets. With a background in economics and extensive experience in senior management roles across the industry, Richard brings a unique perspective on leadership and growth.
About the Host:
Geoff Turner, Broker Distribution Director at Ecclesiastical, is the host of this Covered in 15 podcast series, where he explores critical themes and insights for brokers. Geoff aims to provide valuable perspectives that support brokers and their clients in achieving successful outcomes.
Disclaimer
This podcast is provided for information purposes only and is general and educational in nature and does not constitute legal advice. The information contained herein should not be considered as a substitute for seeking professional advice in specific circumstances.
All opinions expressed are the individual's own and not of (or to be affiliated with) Ecclesiastical Insurance Office plc or its group companies and affiliates (“Ecclesiastical”).
Ecclesiastical shall not be liable for your use or any reliance on, or action taken (or not taken) by you and any loss, however incurred, as a result; all responsibility for such is excluded (except for that which cannot be excluded by law) by Ecclesiastical.
Please note that over time the information contained herein may become out of date and may not constitute best market practice, that it is subject to change and new editions may be issued to incorporate such changes. You acknowledge that Ecclesiastical have no duty to provide such changes to this recording.
 

Growing your business with Richard Coleman from Ecclesiastical

Run time: 15:52
Description:
Join us for this episode of Covered in 15, where our host Geoff Turner talks with Richard Coleman, Managing Director at Ecclesiastical General Insurance UK about embracing ambitious business growth plans and the challenges along the way.
They explore the importance of purpose-driven leadership and share valuable insights on discovering your ‘why’, building on existing strengths, and fostering a culture of innovation and risk-taking. Richard also reflects on his leadership journey at Ecclesiastical, discussing the company’s remarkable growth, navigating market changes, and overcoming the challenges posed by the pandemic.
Quote:
Richard Coleman on planning a growth journey:
“...Find your way, make it really personal, figure out your strengths and those few things that you want to try and change, and then try and create the culture where you can have that open dialog about what you're collectively trying to achieve and the bumps you will get along the way and accept them as real, powerful things for you.”
Resources:
Find out more information about Ecclesiastical’s products and purpose-driven approach to business.
About the Guest:
Richard Coleman is Managing Director at Ecclesiastical General Insurance UK. Since joining in 2020, he has led the organisation through a period of transformative growth, focusing on building a purpose-driven culture and expanding into new markets. With a background in economics and extensive experience in senior management roles across the industry, Richard brings a unique perspective on leadership and growth.
About the Host:
Geoff Turner, Broker Distribution Director at Ecclesiastical, is the host of this Covered in 15 podcast series, where he explores critical themes and insights for brokers. Geoff aims to provide valuable perspectives that support brokers and their clients in achieving successful outcomes.
Disclaimer
This podcast is provided for information purposes only and is general and educational in nature and does not constitute legal advice. The information contained herein should not be considered as a substitute for seeking professional advice in specific circumstances.
All opinions expressed are the individual's own and not of (or to be affiliated with) Ecclesiastical Insurance Office plc or its group companies and affiliates (“Ecclesiastical”).
Ecclesiastical shall not be liable for your use or any reliance on, or action taken (or not taken) by you and any loss, however incurred, as a result; all responsibility for such is excluded (except for that which cannot be excluded by law) by Ecclesiastical.
Please note that over time the information contained herein may become out of date and may not constitute best market practice, that it is subject to change and new editions may be issued to incorporate such changes. You acknowledge that Ecclesiastical have no duty to provide such changes to this recording.
 

How to develop new products and propositions with Laura Carter from Ecclesiastical (audio podcast)

Run time: 13:51 
Description:
In this episode of Covered in 15, our host Geoff Turner talks with Laura Carter about the importance of understanding target markets and customer needs in product development. They also discuss leveraging company’s DNA and engaging staff to develop a strategy and achieve common goals. Laura shares her experience with the development of our new Leisure and Office Professions products, emphasising team engagement and broker and customer testing.
Quote:
"Effective product development is not just about innovation; it's about creating solutions that resonate with your target audience."
Resources:
Ecclesiastical Leisure Product
Ecclesiastical Office Professions
Target Market Statements
About the Guest
Laura Carter is the Customer Segment Director at Ecclesiastical, where she plays a crucial role within the broader underwriting department. Her responsibilities include ensuring regulatory compliance, leading product and proposition development, and engaging with customers to understand and respond to their needs. Laura has been instrumental in the successful launch of several key products, including the Leisure and Office Professions lines.
About the Host:
Geoff Turner, Broker Distribution Director at Ecclesiastical, is the host of this Covered in 15 podcast series, where he explores important themes and insights for brokers. Through engaging conversations with Ecclesiastical experts, Geoff aims to provide valuable perspectives that support brokers and their clients in achieving successful outcomes.
 
Disclaimer
This podcast is provided for information purposes only and is general and educational in nature and does not constitute legal advice. The information contained herein should not be considered as a substitute for seeking professional advice in specific circumstances. 
All opinions expressed are the individuals own and not of (or to be affiliated with) Ecclesiastical Insurance Office plc or its group companies and affiliates (“Ecclesiastical”). 
Ecclesiastical shall not be liable for your use or any reliance on, or action taken (or not taken) by you and any loss, however incurred, as a result; all responsibility for such is excluded (except for that which cannot be excluded by law) by Ecclesiastical.  
Please note that over time the information contained herein may become out of date and may not constitute best market practice, that it is subject to change and new editions may be issued to incorporate such changes. You acknowledge that Ecclesiastical have no duty to provide such changes to this recording. 
 

How to develop new products and propositions with Laura Carter from Ecclesiastical

Run time: 13:51 
Description:
In this episode of Covered in 15, our host Geoff Turner talks with Laura Carter about the importance of understanding target markets and customer needs in product development. They also discuss leveraging company’s DNA and engaging staff to develop a strategy and achieve common goals. Laura shares her experience with the development of our new Leisure and Office Professions products, emphasising team engagement and broker and customer testing.
Quote:
"Effective product development is not just about innovation; it's about creating solutions that resonate with your target audience."
Resources:
Ecclesiastical Leisure Product
Ecclesiastical Office Professions
Target Market Statements
About the Guest
Laura Carter is the Customer Segment Director at Ecclesiastical, where she plays a crucial role within the broader underwriting department. Her responsibilities include ensuring regulatory compliance, leading product and proposition development, and engaging with customers to understand and respond to their needs. Laura has been instrumental in the successful launch of several key products, including the Leisure and Office Professions lines.
About the Host:
Geoff Turner, Broker Distribution Director at Ecclesiastical, is the host of this Covered in 15 podcast series, where he explores important themes and insights for brokers. Through engaging conversations with Ecclesiastical experts, Geoff aims to provide valuable perspectives that support brokers and their clients in achieving successful outcomes.
 
Disclaimer
This podcast is provided for information purposes only and is general and educational in nature and does not constitute legal advice. The information contained herein should not be considered as a substitute for seeking professional advice in specific circumstances. 
All opinions expressed are the individuals own and not of (or to be affiliated with) Ecclesiastical Insurance Office plc or its group companies and affiliates (“Ecclesiastical”). 
Ecclesiastical shall not be liable for your use or any reliance on, or action taken (or not taken) by you and any loss, however incurred, as a result; all responsibility for such is excluded (except for that which cannot be excluded by law) by Ecclesiastical.  
Please note that over time the information contained herein may become out of date and may not constitute best market practice, that it is subject to change and new editions may be issued to incorporate such changes. You acknowledge that Ecclesiastical have no duty to provide such changes to this recording. 
 

Why is a valuation important? with Rachel Doerr from Doerr Dallas Valuations

Run time: 14.40
Description:
In this episode, we talk about the importance of valuations to understand the value of assets and keeping them up to date, especially in the current market conditions where material and manufacturing costs are constantly fluctuating. The valuation provides clients with a detailed report on their assets to support them in agreeing the correct sums insured and for the insurer in the event of a claim. Clients may be reluctant to get a valuation due to the cost, but they are important to establish the assets’ true value to avoid underinsurance and sometimes, over insurance. A professional valuation is often accompanied by additional benefits including expert advice on how to care for precious items and how to help them retain their maximum value over time. When choosing a valuer clients should practice necessary due diligence and ensure they select professionals that operate in the relevant field.
Quote:
“Any luxury watch valued more than a year ago, or jewellery valued more than two years ago will most likely be underinsured. Your client’s items may also be over-valued, so it’s really important to have an accurate and up-to-date valuation.”
Resources:
What's the value of a valuation?
Learn more about Doerr Dallas Valuations
Rachel Doerr’s LinkedIn Profile
Sarah Willoughby’s LinkedIn Profile
About the Guest:
Rachel Doerr is the Founder and Managing Director of Doerr Dallas Valuations, an independent bespoke valuation company of fine art, antiques, jewellery, watches, and more.
About the Host
Sarah Willoughby, Art & Private Client Business Director at Ecclesiastical, leads the Art & Private Clients team and brings over 28 years’ experience in the high net worth sector. Sarah joined Ecclesiastical in 2016 after 16 years with Oak Underwriting where she was Deputy Managing Director and over the years has been involved in all aspects of the business bringing a wealth of high net worth expertise and knowledge.
Disclaimer
This guidance is provided for information purposes and is general and educational in nature and does not constitute legal advice. You are free to choose whether or not to use it and it should not be considered a substitute for seeking professional help in specific circumstances.
Accordingly, Ecclesiastical Insurance Office plc and its group companies (“Ecclesiastical”) and Doerr Dallas Valuations, shall not be liable for any losses, damages, charges or expenses, whether direct, indirect, or consequential and howsoever arising, that you or any third party suffer or incur as a result of or in connection with your use or reliance on or action taken (or not taken) by any other party, caused by that or any other person’s use of or reliance on the information provided in this guidance, except for those which cannot be excluded by law.
In using the guidance, you acknowledge that over time the information provided may become out of date and may not constitute best market practice, that it is subject to change and new editions may be issued to incorporate such changes and that Ecclesiastical and Doerr Dallas Valuations have no duty to provide such changes.
 

Can you learn to be resilient? with Chris Moon

Description:
In the special edition of Covered in 15, Former Army Officer-turned landmine clearance specialist Chris Moon suggests that we can all develop the resilience to survive life’s most profound challenges. Having been taken prisoner by the Khmer Rouge in Cambodia, threatened with execution on multiple occasions, and lost two limbs in an explosion, Chris chose never to perceive himself as a victim. This choice to take ownership of his situation ultimately saved his life.
The psychological principles that underpin this can also be applied in our lives, whenever we face hardship. To cope in our intense and ever-challenging working environment, it is key to develop and maintain resilience, by ensuring that we recharge our psychological batteries. This can be achieved by being open and honest with others, actively articulating your feelings and having frank, honest conversations, we can all challenge the concept of self-limitation.
This is Adrian’s final episode of Covered in 15, and we wish him all the best as he transitions into a well-earned retirement.
Quote:
“Some people innately have [resilience]. I passionately believe that it can be taught. You may have to go back and change people's core beliefs, and give them confidence. Ultimately, it may not always feel like it, but the way we think determines how we feel. That’s the most important psychological discovery ever… We are who we choose to be. Even if we don't feel we have choices, in a kind of way, that's making a choice.”
Run time: 17:28
Resources:
Chris Moon: https://www.chrismoon.co.uk/
Chris Moon's LinkedIn Profile
Adrian Saunders’ LinkedIn Profile
About the Guest:
Chris Moon is a motivational speaker and workshop director, encouraging people to challenge the concept of limitation, inspired by his death-defying experiences as a British Army Officer and HALO Trust Program Manager.
About the Host:
Adrian Saunders, Commercial Director at Ecclesiastical, is responsible for delivering Ecclesiastical’s UK intermediated business. Before joining Ecclesiastical, Adrian held senior roles at Marsh, Zurich and Hiscox. Away from insurance, Adrian is a self-confessed cycling addict. Combining his passions for charity giving and cycling, he previously raised funds for charity by completing London Ride100 three times and cycling across Vietnam and Cambodia.
Disclaimer
This guidance is provided for information purposes and is general and educational in nature and does not constitute legal advice. You are free to choose whether or not to use it and it should not be considered a substitute for seeking professional help in specific circumstances.
Accordingly, Ecclesiastical Insurance Office plc and its group companies (“Ecclesiastical”) and MTB Management Limited, shall not be liable for any losses, damages, charges or expenses, whether direct, indirect, or consequential and howsoever arising, that you or any third party suffer or incur as a result of or in connection with your use or reliance on or action taken (or not taken) by any other party, caused by that or any other person’s use of or reliance on the information provided in this guidance, except for those which cannot be excluded by law.
In viewing the guidance, you acknowledge that over time the information provided may become out of date and may not constitute best market practice that it is subject to change and new editions may be issued to incorporate such changes and that Ecclesiastical and MTB Management Limited, have no duty to provide such changes. 

What steps can you take to make better personal safety and security decisions? with Simon Giddins from Blackstone Consultancy

Description:
With a woefully understaffed police force grappling with a recruitment crisis, coupled with the ongoing cost of living crisis and increasing polarisation across the political spectrum in the UK, crime is on the rise. To mitigate the risks, brokers can advise their private and corporate clients about how to better secure their properties. It’s crucial to think ‘beyond the perimeter’ of the property boundaries, and to consider what information prospective burglars could extrapolate about us, our behaviour, and the nature of our property via our online footprint. Regularly updating passwords, switching off location sharing, and being tactful with the information we share, we can significantly reduce the risks.
Quote:
“We take a slightly different approach to our property risk assessments. Most of the team are chartered security professionals. So, we come from quite a bespoke background. And we apply a layered approach to every property that we deal with. The first thing I'll talk about is what we call within the business beyond the perimeter. And that effectively means anything associated outside the property boundaries. And in simplistic terms, social media could be used.”
Run time: 14:43
Resources:
Personal Property Protection - Art and Private Client
Ecclesiastical Risk Management Services
Home security tips and advice
Cyber safety - protecting yourselves from online risks
Blackstone Consultancy
Simon Giddins’ LinkedIn Profile
Adrian Saunders’ LinkedIn Profile
About the Guest:
Simon Giddins is the Founder and Managing Director of Blackstone Consultancy, a specialist risk management, security, and intelligence organisation, offering protective solutions to both corporate and private clients.
About the Host:
Adrian Saunders, Commercial Director at Ecclesiastical, is responsible for delivering Ecclesiastical’s UK intermediated business. Before joining Ecclesiastical, Adrian held senior roles at Marsh, Zurich and Hiscox. Away from insurance, Adrian is a self-confessed cycling addict. Combining his passions for charity giving and cycling, he previously raised funds for charity by completing London Ride100 three times and cycling across Vietnam and Cambodia.
Disclaimer
This guidance is provided for information purposes and is general and educational in nature and does not constitute legal advice. You are free to choose whether or not to use it and it should not be considered a substitute for seeking professional help in specific circumstances.
Accordingly, Ecclesiastical Insurance Office plc and its group companies (“Ecclesiastical”) and Blackstone Consultancy, shall not be liable for any losses, damages, charges or expenses, whether direct, indirect, or consequential and howsoever arising, that you or any third party suffer or incur as a result of or in connection with your use or reliance on or action taken (or not taken) by any other party, caused by that or any other person’s use of or reliance on the information provided in this guidance, except for those which cannot be excluded by law.
In viewing the guidance, you acknowledge that over time the information provided may become out of date and may not constitute best market practice that it is subject to change and new editions may be issued to incorporate such changes and that Ecclesiastical and Blackstone Consultancy, have no duty to provide such changes. 

How does private equity investment support UK business growth? with Claire Madden from Connection Capital

Description:
Private equity investors can help businesses with strategic decision-making, from formalising their processes to formulating a succession plan, thereby futureproofing the company against the uncertainties around the corner. The Connection Capital website linked below contains a wealth of resources explaining the industry in greater depth, including videos from CEOs and business chairs backed by the firm, granting insight into various companies’ experiences with a private equity backer.
In this episode, we explore the value of a private equity investment. The motivations for seeking private equity backing can vary from generating capital to being able to grow, foreseeing a succession plan and an eventual management buyout. Thus, there are many different flavours to private equity, and dealings with these firms do not necessitate a surrendering of majority control.
Quote:
“[When securing a private equity investment,] it should be a partnership, and in most cases, it's a partnership that works very well, where you've got various stakeholders in the business, whether it's the shareholders, the management team, the employees, the customers, the suppliers, everyone working together to make a success of that business and to grow it. There are generally bumps along the way, particularly if a business is in a growth phase, you very often get what's called growing pains, but as long as everyone's got that goal ahead of them, which is to build value in the business so that everyone benefits from it, then you should be fine.”
Run time: 14.13
Resources:
Connection Capital
Claire Madden’s LinkedIn Profile
Adrian Saunders’ LinkedIn Profile
About the Guest:
Claire Madden is a Co-founder of Connection Capital, a private equity firm active in the UK SME space, investing between £3-10 million of equity per transaction. They seek to back ambitious management teams looking to grow their businesses.
About the Host:
Adrian Saunders, Commercial Director at Ecclesiastical, is responsible for delivering Ecclesiastical’s UK intermediated business. Before joining Ecclesiastical, Adrian held senior roles at Marsh, Zurich and Hiscox. Away from insurance, Adrian is a self-confessed cycling addict. Combining his passions for charity giving and cycling, he previously raised funds for charity by completing London Ride100 three times and cycling across Vietnam and Cambodia.
Disclaimer
This guidance is provided for information purposes and is general and educational in nature and does not constitute legal advice. You are free to choose whether or not to use it and it should not be considered a substitute for seeking professional help in specific circumstances.
Accordingly, Ecclesiastical Insurance Office plc and its group companies (“Ecclesiastical”) and Connection Capital, shall not be liable for any losses, damages, charges or expenses, whether direct, indirect, or consequential and howsoever arising, that you or any third party suffer or incur as a result of or in connection with your use or reliance on or action taken (or not taken) by any other party, caused by that or any other person’s use of or reliance on the information provided in this guidance, except for those which cannot be excluded by law.
In viewing the guidance, you acknowledge that over time the information provided may become out of date and may not constitute best market practice that it is subject to change and new editions may be issued to incorporate such changes and that Ecclesiastical and Connection Capital, have no duty to provide such changes. 

How has Benefact Trust’s giving evolved? with Helen Gray from Benefact Trust

Description:
The Benefact Trust is funded directly by the profits of the specialist financial companies within the Benefact Group. It has been instrumental in supporting churches and Christian charities across the country to retain their status as centres of orbit for charitable giving and community support. 
In this episode, Trust Director Helen Gray talks about the aim for Benefact Trust to double its grant making in the next five years. This growth is underpinned by the commercial performance of the businesses within the Benefact Group, including Ecclesiastical Insurance, whose generated profits finance the Trust’s grant giving.
To find out more about the Trust, including the beneficiaries, how to apply for a grant, and more information about the Community Impact grants, visit the website linked below. If you’re a charity or an insurance broker with charitable clients, there is also a wealth of advice and resources available on the website for you to explore.
Run time: 14.44
Quote:
“To work for a charity that can give on the scale that Benefact gives is most charity workers’ absolute dream… The work the charity does is far reaching, [and] the fact that the charity actually owns the Benefact Group, a group of financial service businesses, places the Benefact Trust in a really enviable position."
Resources:
The Benefact Trust
The Benefact Trust Grants
How to apply for a grant
Helen Gray’s LinkedIn Profile
Adrian Saunders’ LinkedIn Profile
About the Guest:
Helen Gray is the Trust Director for the Benefact Trust. Her previous roles include Foundation Director at the Hertfordshire Community Foundation, and Head of Operations at St Albans Cathedral, granting her first-hand insight into the positive impacts of organisations like Benefact.
About the Host:
Adrian Saunders, Commercial Director at Ecclesiastical, is responsible for delivering Ecclesiastical’s UK intermediated business. Before joining Ecclesiastical, Adrian held senior roles at Marsh, Zurich and Hiscox. Away from insurance, Adrian is a self-confessed cycling addict. Combining his passions for charity giving and cycling, he previously raised funds for charity by completing London Ride100 three times and cycling across Vietnam and Cambodia. 
Disclaimer
This guidance is provided for information purposes and is general and educational in nature and does not constitute legal advice. You are free to choose whether or not to use it and it should not be considered a substitute for seeking professional help in specific circumstances.
Accordingly, Ecclesiastical Insurance Office plc and its group companies (“Ecclesiastical”) and Benefact Trust, shall not be liable for any losses, damages, charges or expenses, whether direct, indirect, or consequential and howsoever arising, that you or any third party suffer or incur as a result of or in connection with your use or reliance on or action taken (or not taken) by any other party, caused by that or any other person’s use of or reliance on the information provided in this guidance, except for those which cannot be excluded by law.
In viewing the guidance, you acknowledge that over time the information provided may become out of date and may not constitute best market practice that it is subject to change and new editions may be issued to incorporate such changes and that Ecclesiastical and Benefact Trust have no duty to provide such changes.

How can we better educate our charity clients to protect them against copyright claims? with Nick Gibbons from Clyde & Co

Description:
With the increased use of the internet and the widespread availability of (seemingly) free video, audio, photographic, illustrative and written digital material, copyright infringement claims have become more prevalent. This may be particularly troublesome for charitable organisations who perhaps feel they are exempt and therefore can use material on their websites or social media platforms, as they are not exhibiting or distributing them for profit. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case and charities are by no means immune to copyright infringement court cases and fines that can run into thousands of pounds.
Quote:
“Brokers should be advising their charity and church organisation [clients] about all these sorts of claims. There is this general feeling amongst churches and charities that somehow, they're less likely to get into trouble with these sorts of things. And it's not only copyright; it's defamation, data breaches, inaccurate information... All these things are much more common because of the internet.”
Run time: 14.06
Resources:
Avoid the copyright web
Ecclesiastical - Charity Insurance
Ecclesiastical – Faith and Community Insurance
Clyde & Co – Nick Gibbons 
Faith Kitchen’s LinkedIn Profile
About the Guest:
Nick Gibbons is a Legal Director at Clyde & Co, where he specialises in intellectual property, cyber risk and data protection, and internet law.
About the Host:
Faith Kitchen is the Customer Segment Director at Ecclesiastical. Faith is responsible for developing and maintaining our products and propositions to meet the needs of our specialist target markets. She maintains relationships with a number of key bodies in the heritage, charity and education sector, to ensure we fully understand what is important to customers and can develop useful insight and thought leadership. Faith is a member of the Underwriting leadership Team. In her spare time, she serves as a Charity Trustee and a School Governor.
Disclaimer
This guidance is provided for information purposes and is general and educational in nature and does not constitute legal advice. You are free to choose whether or not to use it and it should not be considered a substitute for seeking professional help in specific circumstances.
Accordingly, Ecclesiastical Insurance Office plc and its group companies (“Ecclesiastical”) and Clyde and Co, shall not be liable for any losses, damages, charges or expenses, whether direct, indirect, or consequential and howsoever arising, that you or any third party suffer or incur as a result of or in connection with your use or reliance on or action taken (or not taken) by any other party, caused by that or any other person’s use of or reliance on the information provided in this guidance, except for those which cannot be excluded by law.
In viewing the guidance, you acknowledge that over time the information provided may become out of date and may not constitute best market practice that it is subject to change and new editions may be issued to incorporate such changes and that Ecclesiastical and Clyde & Co have no duty to provide such changes.