Meet our Managing Director
What makes you passionate about working for TOWER?
"We have such a strong reason to exist as a company - being to pay claims and benefits to people who are often in need when we pay them. This is a good social benefit and the function an insurer plays in the community is very worthwhile.
It is also an interesting area of business with lots of good people to work with and challenges to enjoy. I love the challenge and people aspects the most."
What's an example of a typical work day for an MD?
"Generally quite a few meetings and lots of emails to respond to - there's lots to think about during the day and a lot of people to talk to by phone or face to face.
I try to give as much guidance as possible and make necessary decisions as quickly as possible. I also spend quite a bit of time on communication with staff, customers and business partners. When I am travelling, email works quite well but face to face is always best!
I spend quite a bit of time on shareholder and board related issues - although it is important to me that I don't get removed from the real issues in the business. Spending time with our staff team and business partners is very enjoyable.
I absolutely love my job! There is nothing I can really say I would rather do from a work perspective."
How would you describe your management style?
"I would like to say I am open. I try to encourage and coax the best out of the business and its people. If I can help others do their jobs better, then I am succeeding.
I enjoy working with others, hearing stories about how we are interacting with customers and advisers and how we are winning individually, as a team and as a business overall. I learn so much about the business by listening to staff and looking for understanding on how we are going."
What’s the best thing that has ever happened while working at TOWER?
"In the context of my career and challenges, being asked to come to Australia (from the New Zealand business) in late 2002 was my biggest and best thing.
It gave me an opportunity to make a major difference and help turn near disaster into success and value for all. Most people in the market thought we would fail but we - as a team - showed otherwise. We have made a huge positive difference to TOWER shareholders in the past few years.
Getting the Group Managing Director role in early 2005 was a huge buzz - succeeding in Australia helped me secure the Group Managing Director role. Following my move back to Australia full time in late 2006, I have really enjoyed getting more closely involved in the business here and building, with our team, more success.
Describe a TOWER staff member in 3 words
"Enthusiastic, passionate and talented."
