We’re delighted to welcome John Cottrell as Senior Trading Underwriter, Regions, for our Bespoke Personal Motor team, strengthening our Private Client proposition with experience that’s firmly shaped around brokers.
What experience and background do you bring to the role, and how does that benefit brokers today?
I have over 30 years’ insurance experience, most of that in High Net Worth (HNW) and Ultra High Net Worth (UHNW).
Starting my career in high street broking and most recently working for an international broker, I understand the pressures brokers face day to day.
I‘ve also worked for a HNW insurer, an MGA and a Mutual insurer, and that experience means I understand the market from every angle - which helps us make faster, more pragmatic underwriting decisions that work for brokers and their clients.
What lessons from your previous roles influence how you work with brokers now?
Service is key. Brokers are busy and need things done right first time so they can deliver the same level of service to their clients. Having seen the process from all sides, I strongly believe the partnership between broker and underwriter is what delivers the best customer outcomes.
What can brokers expect from you day to day? What makes a strong underwriter–broker partnership?
I work closely with our regional underwriting team to ensure consistency, alignment and delivery. I’m also working alongside some very well-known and respected underwriters in this market, which gives brokers confidence from the outset.
Strong partnerships are built on clear communication, shared priorities and a genuine understanding of each other’s role.
Where do you see the strongest opportunities for brokers in the Private Client market right now?
Choice is crucial. HNW and UHNW clients have different needs, so being able to offer options is key. Private Client Prestige gives brokers a fully tailorable solution, while Private Client Ultimate offers a more all-encompassing proposition with the additional cover UHNW clients expect. This flexibility allows brokers to place clients confidently without compromise.
What do we do particularly well for Private Client brokers?
We understand the unique nature of HNW and UHNW motor risks because we focus purely on motor. Rather than forcing risks into wider portfolio solutions, we apply specialist motor expertise and tailor cover around the individual client.
How does our underwriting approach differ from the wider market?
The human element is vital. Our underwriting is experience-led and flexible, there’s no “computer says no”. Instead, we use judgement, knowledge and enthusiasm to find solutions that work for brokers and their clients.
What are you most looking forward to building over the next 12 months?
Strengthening our existing broker relationships while opening the door to new ones. With new people joining the business and the introduction of Private Client Ultimate, we’re giving brokers a fresh choice and a new focus in the Private Client motor market.
And outside of work?
I play golf and spend a lot of my free time exploring the countryside and beaches in a VW campervan with my two working cocker spaniels, a great way to switch off.
