The Claims Data graduate scheme is approximately a two year-long programme sponsored by the Data team sitting within the Claims Division. It consists of three rotations, the first two focusing on claims handling and data analysis, the last one being guided by your career preferences.

I find this structure to be the perfect balance of certainty and flexibility. Knowing what I was going to do during the first year meant I could focus on getting to know the company structure and the products and services on offer, understand the wider insurance industry and integrate the company culture into my day-to-day work.

I am currently in my second rotation as a data analyst for the Claims Data & Insight team, where I have been responsible for providing accurate and thorough insights about claims data to a range of stakeholders, as well as contributing to developing a data driven culture across the business.

Prior to my current rotation, I completed 8 months of claims handling, where I gained knowledge to analyse and investigate claims, by working alongside a variety of experts to decide the most effective way to settle them.

After a year of being at Allianz, I can confidently recommend this company as a place to work. As one of the largest insurers in the world, there is so much you can explore within the business and plenty of opportunities to learn and develop - not just through formal education, but also from colleagues and from experiencing different roles.

Personally, I chose to secure the Claims Data graduate scheme after hearing about the team’s Agile culture, based on values of collaboration, team empowerment and technical excellence through learning and development.

I found the Allianz application process to be smooth, friendly and to the point. It consisted of three phases – an online application form, a video interview and an assessment centre. Instructions where clearly communicated and the whole process only went on for a few weeks. I particularly enjoyed the assessment centre, as I had a chance to get to know some of the people I am now working with as well as look into the business in more detail.

Contrary to what you might think, something I find great about insurance is that it is very varied. Did you know almost anything can be insured? That means the types of customers and sectors you can get involved in is endless, which opens up a range of opportunities for learning and development as well as career progression.

It’s also interesting to work in an industry that requires companies to adapt quickly to global changes, including climate change, regulatory decisions and technological advancements. There’s always something we need to anticipate to and act on.

At Allianz there is so much you can participate in outside of work – from raising money for charity (either independently or in teams) or volunteering, to being part of the graduate committee and engaging in the organisation and delivery of a range of social and developmental events.

They are a great chance to give back to the community as well as develop your network with people you do not usually work with day-to-day.

I was quite surprised by the company culture. Despite it being a large business with thousands of employees, you get the chance to speak to and work closely with senior managers. I would describe it as an open culture where people invite new ideas, favour transparency and support taking good risks. I have seen Allianz is a company that rewards innovation and promotes development.

Make sure you research the industry and Allianz prior to your assessment centre and communicate in an engaging manner.