From Insurance graduate to Cyber Underwriter

In 2018, I joined the Lloyd’s Insurance Graduate Scheme, a two-year programme that offered the opportunity to rotate through four diverse placements—two within Lloyd’s and two in the wider Market. I began with the Global Marketing team, followed by a role in the Performance Management Division (PMD). Afterwards, I moved into the Cyber space, first working as a Cyber Broker at BMS Group, before transitioning to Cyber Underwriting at Hamilton Syndicate.

What sets the Lloyd’s Graduate Scheme apart is the unparalleled exposure it offers to the heart of the world’s leading specialist re/insurance market. While many professionals spend years working within the Market without ever seeing the bigger picture, the scheme offers you a front-row seat. It fast-tracks your learning, compressing five-plus years of development into just two, equipping you with both technical expertise and industry insight. The rotational structure allows you to explore different areas, figure out what excites you, and build a strong foundation before diving into a specific career path. With the added support towards completing the ACII qualification, graduates emerge from the scheme with a distinct edge. As a result, Lloyd’s graduates are highly sought after, recognised across the Market for their extensive exposure, technical expertise, and the unique perspective they bring.

"Lloyd’s didn’t just offer me a graduate role—it provided an environment that was focused on my personal and professional growth."

Lloyd’s didn’t just offer me a graduate role—it provided an environment that was focused on my personal and professional growth. I was never treated as just another graduate; the mentorship and support were tailored to my strengths and interests, allowing me to thrive. Even now, the relationships and connections I built during the scheme continue to be incredibly valuable. Being part of the Lloyd’s alumni network feels like having a powerful resource at my fingertips—always ready to offer advice, forge connections, and steer me towards the right opportunities.

To be honest, I hadn’t heard of Lloyd’s or commercial insurance before applying. Like many graduates, I was casting a wide net after university. But once I discovered Lloyd’s, I knew it was the perfect fit. The scale, influence, and innovation of the world’s largest specialist re/insurance marketplace instantly captured my imagination—and still does. The chance to be at the heart of such a prestigious institution was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.

Where do I start? The technical knowledge, diverse placements, and exposure to different parts of the Market were invaluable. But the real standout? The people. Learning from some of the best in the business and being part of a smaller graduate cohort helped forge strong connections, and I've made lifelong friends along the way. It might sound sentimental, but it’s true—those friendships were the icing on the cake.