Jack Benton, Jacob Dolan, and Graeme Beaty from Reason Global are studying for their ACII qualifications. But how does this benefit customers? Sarah and Georgie, our previous graduates explain.
We live in a world of qualifications. It seems nowadays that everyone needs a certificate on the wall to do almost anything. Many seem pointless: just ways of helping an HR department to select staff objectively or ticking a box on a tender form. But some are different. Some have an effect not only on the students but on the people they work with and their customers too. Some are worth much more than the paper on which they are written.
Jack, Jacob, and Graeme have worked happily with Reason Global for a number of years. But recently they decided they wanted more from their careers. They wanted a recognised qualification in insurance broking, not just for their own advancement within the company but to help provide a more rounded service for their customers. In their cases, it’s really working.
The Advanced Diploma provides an enhanced understanding of insurance practice, both in terms of technical subject matter and overall application skills. It is a comprehensive assessment of market knowledge and understanding and clearly demonstrates the purpose, commitment and ability of those who are able to show their ACII designation. But dig a little deeper and it becomes clear that this is not a selfish act of advancement: those who are likely to gain most are the company’s customers.
But that’s just the beginning of the process. As the only Lloyds broker solely dedicated to moving and self-storage, Reason Global has an office in the Lloyds building in London. Georgie, who has completed her Advanced Diploma, works closely with the insurers who provide our cover, and uses her knowledge to understand how insurers operate. “My job is to explain the risk involved,” she said. “Any element of doubt in the mind of the underwriter and the premium will go up. If we can help the underwriter to assess the risk accurately we will naturally obtain the right cover and the best possible price for our customers. My studies have helped me immensely in achieving this.”
There is another element too. When dealing with Lloyds underwriters, trust is key. That trust can only be achieved by continually demonstrating that risks are correctly and honestly presented. Once the relationship is established, better service and keen rates naturally follow.
Although most of the study is outside business hours, our current group of CII students have said that the company has been fantastically supportive, especially the colleagues studying alongside them. “Whilst we have both found the studies challenging, it has been helpful to be able to lean on each other at times for support. Working with some of the best specialist underwriters for our industry is hugely rewarding.”
But it’s clear that although Reason Global and the underwriters will benefit from Sarah and Georgie’s efforts, as well as the expanded knowledge of Jack, Jacob, and Graeme, the big winners are the clients. Better understanding means more comprehensive cover, more accurate briefs and, ultimately, highly competitive premiums. Much more than a certificate on a wall!
First published in The Mover 2015.
Updated 16/01/2026
