Spotlight on Georgina Weekes: Business Analysis, Digital Transformation & Diversity.
Congratulations on the recent recognition from the client! Can you tell us more about the project and your role in it?
The project aimed to identify an outwards reinsurance system to improve efficiency and team pressure. My role as a Business Analyst involved completing a market scan and vendor selection analysis, while moving into the discovery phase to identify the best use of features and functionality of the selected system. We focused on understanding the team’s current systems and processes, identifying recommendations for improvement and gap analysis to achieve the desired future state. I tailored my approach to empower the team to identify the key areas of improvement that would enable stakeholders to implement the desired future state; focusing on clear and consistent communications that the client greatly appreciated and was well-received.
Beyond delivering digital transformation, you have been involved in diversity, inclusion and mentorship initiatives. Can you share more and highlight their importance?
It is significant to raise awareness and foster a culture of respect in the workplace. Being involved in diversity & inclusion initiatives and events that delve into LGBTQA+, race and gender topics help us create a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and appreciated.
Also – my involvement with mentorship initiatives has proved to be a powerful tool for the personal and professional growth of both myself and others. This year, I was involved in launching the r10 + Deedbees Acceleration Programme, where we invested time and expertise through one-on-one sessions to provide guidance and mentorship to their members. Our partnership with ConnectHive (previously known as Deedbees) was dedicated to supporting future generations and a brighter future for young professionals from different backgrounds.
With the recent acquisition of r10 by Alchemy, how do you believe this acquisition is set to benefit clients?
The acquisition by Alchemy creates an opportunity for clients to benefit from a comprehensive solution for their digital transformation journey. This includes full end-to-end project delivery capability, access to a broader talent pool, a blend of technical and business knowledge, and an expanded global network of vendors and suppliers.
What do you find most exciting about working in the London Market? Are there specific trends or changes in the London Market that you find particularly interesting or challenging?
I am excited for the welcomed change in 2024 with the implementation of the Lloyd’s Modernisation & Transformation programme via Blueprint 2. The MRC v3 will transform the sharing of risk data throughout the lifecycle of a policy with all parties having explicit information stated on the slip – enabling faster processing, more accurate assessment of the risk and most importantly the recording of this vital risk data to make better underwriting decisions for the future.
If all syndicates were to record each and every piece of risk information provided on a slip, the risk entry would have taken an inordinate amount of time to complete; syndicates are now able to ingest standardised risk information with a data-first approach enabling them to understand their risk more than ever before.
In the digital transformation era, how do you see the role of Business Analysis evolving in the insurance sector?
The role of Business Analysis is shifting towards a more “human” approach to change management. Technology advancement will play an even greater role in requirements gathering and process mapping, but the essence lies in empathising and sympathising with the challenges of change and maintaining strong client relationships and facilitating discussion for change. Therefore, focusing on soft skills and building trusted relationships will be paramount in the coming years.
Looking back on your career, what advice would you give to someone aspiring to become a successful Business Analyst in the insurance industry?
My advice to aspiring Business Analysts and the wider London Market would be to ask questions, actively engage in mentorship to learn, and later on, pull others up as you progress. The human element is crucial in consulting, and embracing resourcefulness and curiosity is key to success.
