Every year, we elect 5 new presidents to represent our local institutes in Sligo, Galway, Limerick, Cork and Dublin. This year, we have an excellent group of experienced, knowledgeable and enthusiastic presidents leading our institutes around Ireland.
But who are they? In a 5 part blog series, we will introduce you to your local institute presents for 2019/2020. The presidents will discuss their careers so far, what challenges and tasks they will take on in their new role and they will offer advice to our members and new starters in our industry.
Having been encouraged by his CEO (then, Galway President) in the late 80s to get involved with the Galway local institute, Jim Molloy had his sights set on becoming a valued member of the institute. Now, in 2019, he is President.
Jim spoke to us about why he joined the council, what advice he would offer career starters and what the Galway institute has planned for it's members in the coming year.
When and why did you join the council?
In 1996, Mr. John Cannon was the incoming President. He approached me to put my name forward to join the council. In those days, an election took place at the AGM, and one had to canvas for votes from other members, which was actually a great way to get to know other insurance personnel. I was elected to Council, and I can honestly say that I’ve enjoyed every moment of it since.
What advice would you give to people starting their career in insurance?
Our industry provides an abundance of career opportunities and is made up of wonderful, hardworking professionals. Our Institute is here to Educate, Inspire and Connect and the best advice I can give to anyone starting out is to get involved with your Local Institute as it definitely helps with your career progression.
The educational courses available at all levels are brilliant and your Local Institute will be able to provide you with all the information you need. We are only ever a phone call away and any member of The Insurance Institute team will put you on the right track and provide you with every support available to ensure you have a successful career. I would strongly advise those just starting out not to be shy and don’t be afraid to seek help - ask and you will receive!
Start your career in insurance today.
What are your objectives for the year?
As previously stated, we have an enthusiastic council, which includes two members who are currently undertaking the Insurance Practitioner Apprenticeship. It is my objective to make sure that all members on Council connect firstly with each other and then engage in a meaningful way with all members – this includes everyone from apprentices to members of ARíS (Association for Retired Insurance Staff), and all those in between.
Find our more about our apprenticeship programme.
Tell us about some of the events the Galway LI has planned.
We have a great number of networking events organised for the year ahead, and these are always well attended and received by all members, from our new recruits to our senior members in ARíS. One of the highlights which is returning this year, is the Mindfulness / Wellness evening. We’ll be supporting Brokers Ireland in their climb of Croagh Patrick in July, an event I really look forward to and one we have supported since it commenced 10 years ago.
Again this year, we will remember those who are no longer with us at our annual ecumenical service in St. Nicholas’ in late November with music provide by the Galway Baytones.
A new event to our calendar and one which should draw great interest is the ‘Public Speaking Masterclass’ – which we’re currently finalising details for.
Keep an eye on our book my ticket page to stay involved!
Whether you're a school leaver, college graduate or just looking for a career change, you can start your career in insurance with us today! Read more about our qualifications or register your interest in our apprenticeship programme to get started.
