Summer Intern at Allianz Insurance

Harriet Conway

Economics

Internship (1 Month+)

Allianz UK

What was the interview process like?

There were several stages; after an online application including your CV there were verbal and numerical reasoning tests; then a phone interview followed by an assessment centre. The assessment centre included a mix of activities from interviews, to a case study and presentation and also a chance to meet with previous graduates and discuss their time and journey with the company so far.

How much responsibility were you given?

Being part of the Motor Trade New Business team I was really keen to understand what being an underwriter was all about - following some initial shadowing to learn more about the role, I was given my own new business cases just like any other member of the team.

What advice would you give to someone applying for your role?

Understand what placement and company you are applying for, simple but this will give you a wealth of confidence for the interview and applied case studies. Also, be yourself at assessment centres - it’s important to understand your fit with the company as much as it is them assessing you too!

What has been your biggest challenge?

I love the diversity of moving around the business on my current graduate scheme, but there is always the challenge of leaving a role you enjoy and have got to grips with! Experience is key though and adapting and responding in new situations is now one of my key strengths.

Where has your experience exceeded your expectations?

My summer placement; I was given work and responsibility that reflected a ‘real’ role within the team, talking to brokers to trade and secure new business. I was also given the opportunity to develop my understanding of the whole operation - shadowing other roles and teams within the branch.

What do you most enjoy about your role?

Diversity - being on the Management Graduate Scheme I get the opportunity to move around the business every 6 months – it’s been a great way of learning all about the different divisions and teams within the company whilst developing a wide range of skills throughout different experiences I’ve faced.

Describe a situation where you have surpassed expectations?

I surpassed my own expectations when I secured a six month secondment in India. When I heard about the opportunity during my summer placement I knew it was something I would apply for – never believing that 2 years later I would have just returned from running a team out there!

What is the atmosphere like in your team?

Moving throughout the business one thing has remained the same; every team is so welcoming and supportive. People really do take the time to support you in getting up and running. A great team spirit is crucial in balancing meeting work demands but having some fun along the way too.

What were the activities outside of work?

All of the offices I have worked at so far have had a great social side to them – from sport to theatre trips, to holidays, to a trip to the pub! There’s always something to get involved with and be a part of outside of business hours!

How promising are the graduate prospects?

Graduate prospects within Allianz are fantastic, and the summer placement really supports this. It’s a great chance to learn more about the company and future graduate opportunities – better still my feedback was great and I secured a place on the graduate scheme before leaving – a great relief heading into finals!