A work experience high school student shares a fresh perspective on the expertise, people, and purpose behind our work.
“My experience at Victual gave me a behind-the-scenes insight into the food safety and insurance sector. The Victual team is a specialised, compact environment which allowed me to be included in real conversations, client discussions, and technical processes. This opportunity gave me an understanding of how risk management and broking work together to protect the food and beverage industry.
Through Dipon, a food safety specialist and microbiologist, I learned about contamination risks, foodborne hazards, and the difference between food safety and food quality. He explained his processes, including HACCP, and how he develops strategies to minimise risk. His work involves extensive problem-solving and critical thinking about potential scenarios, as well as creating continuity and action plans. I noticed how involved the role is and how challenging it can be to manage relationships with clients while helping businesses remain compliant with management plans. Although the role is mainly technical, it also involves supporting clients through stressful situations, which I found particularly interesting because it was not something I expected to be part of the job.
The risk management team often take the time to inspect and support clients through observations and consulting advice. Shadowing Victual’s Risk Consultant, I watched her analyse environmental and operational risks while supporting business leaders during challenging situations. For example, she worked with a food and beverage business, where the CEO was concerned about rising fuel prices making food distribution more expensive. Victual’s Risk Consultant helped navigate the situation by providing practical advice and support. This aspect of risk management surprised me because the work is not only technical—it is also empathetic, fast-thinking, and people-focused.
On the broking side, I learned from Dee and Benji how dynamic and evolving a broker’s role is. They work as intermediaries between clients and insurers, helping clients find suitable insurance solutions while maintaining strong relationships with insurers. Dee explained the differences between hard and soft insurance markets and how brokers advocate for clients to achieve fair premiums while balancing insurer relationships. I also joined a meeting with a travel insurance company. The discussion was relaxed and focused on building a strong working relationship with the insurer. I observed how important it is for brokers to maintain good connections with insurers while discussing policy coverage, premium pricing, and potential flexibility for their clients.
Overall, I really enjoyed my time at Victual. I learned valuable lessons from everyone on the team, not only about the insurance industry but also about working in a professional corporate environment. The experience highlighted the importance of communication, collaboration, and building strong relationships in achieving success. Before this placement, I had little idea of what career I wanted to pursue, but after my experience at Victual, I would genuinely consider working in this industry.”
This experience highlights that Victual is more than insurance—it is a team of specialists combining technical expertise, practical advice, and strong relationships to help food and beverage businesses navigate complex challenges.
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