Martin Swann
Martin Swann, Account Executive at Blackmore Borley, never stops learning. "I came from a general PI background to a job where 95 per cent of my work is bespoke wording. Every day is a school day." He's also an avid golfer, saying that the most valuable thing his trainer has taught him in the power of positive thinkingWhat do you do in your day job?
I’m a client-facing broker, so I’m always meeting with clients and underwriters. Blackmore Borley is known in the market for tackling things that are difficult or need bespoke wording – we regularly have brainstorming sessions to think up ideas for new risks.
What do you like most about your work?
It’s inspiring when you sit down with a new client and they’re really passionate about what they do. I also enjoy word-of-mouth marketing, and every Thursday I go to a networking group. I’m not there for the hard sell – I want to learn from other professionals.
Of course, it also generates business!
How are you creative outside work?
I almost made it on to Sky One’s The Big Idea with a product idea I had. I was at my local rugby club with my son – I had him, his pushchair and his change bag, and no hands left for my beer! I thought what I needed was a baby papoose combined with a rucksack. Later, I was at a trade fair, submitted the idea to the programme and made it into the final ten.
What’s your favourite invention?
I’m fanatical about golf, so it’s got to be the Explanar, a machine that my golf coach at Westwood Golf Academy uses. It works by moving a weighted roller around a fixed frame. When you swing the roller, it guides you through your perfect swing, so you quickly learn what you need to do. The results are amazing.
What about golf suits you to a tee?
I like that you’re out there, you’re playing for yourself, you get a nice walk and some fresh air, and you have time to think. I’m not the best player in the world, but I see it as a personal challenge and will always keep trying to improve.
The CV
| 2000 - 2001: | Account Handler, Dunglison & Co Ltd |
| 2001 - 2002: | New Business Executive, Charcol Insurance Brokers |
| 2002 - 2004: | Account Handler, Dickson Manchester Ltd (previously Profind) |
| 2004 - 2006: | Account Executive, James Hallam Ltd |
| 2006 - present: | Account Executive, Blackmore Borley Ltd |