"Just do it! Volunteer today"
As part of our 30 years. 30 stories campaign we also want to celebrate our volunteers.
Our volunteers highlight the importance of the circular nature of our work and our focus on the sustainability of social mobility.
Broadening access to careers is about more than simply opening the door - it’s about helping people understand what lies beyond it.
That’s why we don’t just talk the talk - we walk the walk.
Our volunteers bring real-world experience from across industry, different sectors and diverse career journeys. By sharing their stories, insights and experiences, they help our Talent Network understand what careers are really like and show there isn’t just one route to in.
A conversation with someone already working in the industry can build confidence, broaden horizons and turn “I could never do that” into “Why not me?”
Meet Howard Pearson, who started volunteering with us in 2025.
With a wealth of experience and a broad smile, he’s also a Trustee at WCIB and a consultant for Howden.
One of the most rewarding aspects of volunteering with The Brokerage is that “I’ve been able to help make introductions into the reinsurance market and provide [young people] opportunities to attend networking events.”
“Insurance can undersell itself. We have a responsibility to change that, particularly by reaching people who might not otherwise be exposed to the opportunities our industry offers.”
We’re connecting people. Empowering others. Strengthening networks. Creating opportunities.
30 Years. 30 Stories.
Volunteer: Howard Pearson Career history:
1. The Worshipful Company of Insurers
2. Howden
Volunteering experiences The Brokerage:
Participated in 3 x online careers panels
Current Role: 1. Trustee at Worshipful Company of Insurers sitting on the Education subcommittee. see link https://www.wci.org.uk/wci-we-give/education-fund
2. Consultant for Howden, mentoring and advising the technology and energy retail team who provide insurance advice to fast growth tech companies.. See extract below from a guide to insuring a tech company I have recently completed
Who is Howard?
Having insured many of the fastest growing tech businesses in the UK, Howard’s mantra
is that “tech companies look forward and insurance companies look backward” so
somebody who can understand both points of view is essential.
Howard’s passion for insuring UK tech businesses was recognised in the early 2000s
when he was invited to join the nascent TechAssure network as the first non-USA member
of this now leading independent think tank for insuring emerging technology risks
throughout the world.
In his career Howard has founded, scaled, and exited a VC backed insurance broker; been
a CEO of a Top 50 Lloyd’s insurance broker and sat on the board of BIBA, the insurance
broker trade association. He now divides his time between consultancy for Howden’s
Tech and Energy team, being a trustee of a charity for insurance education and social
mobility, and guiding tourists around the City of London. He is a Fellow of the Chartered
Insurance Institute a Chartered Insurance Broker, and a Liveryman of the Worshipful
Company of Insurers.
What did Howard have to say about volunteering at The Brokerage:
What inspired you to volunteer with The Brokerage?
Request from The Brokerage CEO at an event at Lloyd’s 7 July 2025
Can you tell us about a young person you've met through The Brokerage who has stayed with you? What made their story memorable?
One second year university student connected with me after an event, and we have enjoyed several calls. I have been able to help them make contacts in the reinsurance market and attend networking events.
Another student recognised me from an earlier event which was lovely.
What did/do you enjoy about your volunteering at a Brokerage event?
My career has been exciting, interesting and rewarding. It is a pleasure to share this and hear so many questions.
Would you recommend volunteering at a Brokerage event? If so, why?
Insurance undersells itself. It’s our job to put that right particularly reaching those who might not otherwise be exposed to what we do. The Brokerage organisation of the events I have attended has been good, and the time commitment is less than 90 minutes.
In your experience, what does The Brokerage offer young people that others don’t?
I am learning about the Brokerage for the first time over the last few months and am impressed by the dedication of the staff, the events I have attended and the wider activity I see on LinkedIn. Ask me again in another 12 months when I understand more.
Has volunteering changed the way you think about social mobility, opportunity or talent? If so, how?
I had not appreciated how the froth around AI is creating a concern that insurance might change beyond recognition. This needs to be challenged and out in perspective.
What would you say to anyone who is thinking about volunteering for a Brokerage event? Tips
JDI (Just Do It)
If you could describe The Brokerage in just three words, what would they be - and why?
Driven (about social mobility)
Professional (in dealing with all stakeholders)
Authentic (as individuals identifying with their roles)
Thinking of volunteering? Sign up today!
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