Welcome to another episode of Beyond the Desk, where we take a deep dive into the careers of influential leaders in technology, transformation, and operations within global insurance and insurtech.

This week, host Mark Thomas sits down with Sumesh Vijayakumar, Head of Claims Transformation at Beazley, to explore his journey to leading transformation initiatives in the insurance sector.

In this insightful conversation, Sumesh shares his unconventional entry into insurance, the evolution of his career through consulting and industry roles, and his views on the future of claims transformation. From the role of AI in claims to the importance of diverse industry experience, this episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone looking to advance in the insurance and transformation space.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• How Sumesh transitioned from pharmaceutical sciences to insurance and transformation roles.
• The differences between working in consulting versus in-house insurance transformation.
• Why claims transformation is now a priority and the key challenges the industry faces.
• How AI and technology are reshaping the role of claims adjusters and decision-making in insurance.
• The importance of cross-industry experience and why insurance should embrace external perspectives.
• Key career lessons, including the value of continuous learning, adaptability, and building strong networks.

Connect with Us:

• Mark Thomas on LinkedIn: Connect Here
• Sumesh on LinkedIn: Connect Here
• Follow Beyond the Desk on LinkedIn: Follow Here
• Watch Full-Length Video Episodes on YouTube Here

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Thanks for tuning in—see you next time on Beyond the Desk! 🎧

Sponsor Message:

This episode is brought to you by Invector Search, your go-to partner for building high-performing leadership teams in technology and transformation within insurance. Follow us on LinkedIn.

In this episode of Beyond the Desk, host Mark Thomas sits down with Giles Baxter, CIO for Europe at Brown & Brown, to explore his remarkable career journey in technology, transformation, and leadership within the insurance sector.

Giles shares his personal story, from starting in chemistry to entering tech by chance and how he navigated roles at Accenture, RSA, and other pivotal organisations. He dives into his experiences leading complex transformations, driving innovation, and embracing the unique challenges of merging diverse teams within a rapidly evolving insurance industry.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into:

• The importance of curiosity, adaptability, and taking risks in career growth.
• Building relationships and leveraging networks to unlock new opportunities.
• The evolving role of the CIO, from managing infrastructure to driving business strategy and innovation.
• The challenges and rewards of integrating businesses during rapid growth.
• Practical advice for aspiring technology leaders, including how to align technology investments with business goals.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out in insurance, Giles’ story is packed with lessons on leadership, adaptability, and achieving impactful results.

Never miss an episode of Beyond the Desk! New episodes drop every Tuesday. Subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast with your colleagues to help others discover inspiring stories from leaders in insurance and Insurtech.

Connect with us:

• Giles Baxter on LinkedIn
• Mark Thomas on LinkedIn
• Beyond the Desk on Linkedin

You can also watch full-length videos on YouTube.

Beyond the Desk is powered by Invecta Search. The brand-new leadership search product from Invecta Group aimed at leadership hires in the global insurance sector. For more information, check out the Invecta Group LinkedIn page here.

Beyond the Desk is THE insurance careers podcast.

The first episode is launching on Tuesday, 28th January.

Watch full-length episodes on YouTube and connect with us on Linkedin for more content and insights.