Just a Minute: Gordon Duncan – Partner, Lockton Companies

Our latest Just a Minute series continues with Gordon Duncan, Scottish-based Partner at global insurance firm Lockton Companies LLP

1. Why did you chose to work in the finance sector and how did you get started in the sector?

Like most people in the Insurance Industry I fell into it. I was looking for a number of opportunities to get started in employment and came across a position withAlllianz (then Cornhill Insurance) to become a Trainee Commercial Lines Underwriter. I duly applied, got the job and the rest is history!

2. Who or what has been the greatest professional influence in your life?

There have been many people who have helped shaped my career. There have been individuals that I have learned from and whose ideas I have, perhaps,implemented. There have been also individuals whose ideas and behaviours Ilearned not to emulate.

3. Biggest professional achievement and your best professional experience?

Best Professional Experience – helping to create Lockton Corporate Scotland andwithin two years being regarded as a recognised dominant force in our sector. Worst Professional Experience – I have been very fortunate in life, and can’t recollect anything which would fall into this category.

4. What’s the best advice you received, either personal or professional?

Surround yourself and spend time with positive, enthusiastic and like-minded individuals who share the same goals and vision and forget about the negativity which the minority bring to the table

5. What do you like most and least about your job?

The part I like the most is the interaction with our clients, and constantly striving to add value and business benefit to their organisations. I also like to be involved in securing new business and competing against competitors. In terms of the thing I least enjoy, that is difficult to answer, but if I had to hang my hat on something it would be in relation to Compliance and trying consistently to keep up.

6. What advice would you give to anyone considering a career in finance?

Be open minded, commit to a Personal Development Plan, work hard and enjoy

7. What you would most like to change in the industry?

For all Brokers, regardless of size, to be completely transparent with clients on the income they derive from the Insurance market place when placing business.

8. Are you pessimistic or optimistic about the economic outlook in the wake of June’s Brexit vote?

It is difficult to say definitively as a number of key questions have still to be answered. However, the decision has been made and accordingly we have to use our time and energy to embrace the change the British electorate has decided upon and to help shape the best possible future for Britain to the best of our ability.

9. Which social media sites do you use?

LinkedIn

10. What are your hobbies and interests outside of the office?

Football, boxing and hanging out with my two young children.

11. What job would you want to do if you were not in finance?

Professional Footballer – I am still aspiring to be one at the tender age of 46!

12. What is your favourite holiday destination:

With the family – Florida. With my wife – Italy (Amalfi Coast)