30 Under 30
30 Under 30: Q&A with Zurich, Innovation Category Partner
Leading insurer Zurich has an impressive record for encouraging innovators and giving every new generation an opportunity to shape the future. It’s one of many reasons why they are an ideal choice as sponsor of the Innovation category in Gef’s 30 Under 30 Awards for the second year running. We spoke to Nigel Simpson, Head of International Markets, and Aalish Harris, Head of Commercial for International Markets to find out more about why Zurich are so keen to support our initiative to celebrate the Island’s future leaders. Aalish was one of the 2023 winners in the 30 Under 30 Leadership category, sponsored by Jacksons (click here to read about this year’s winners).
Q: What inspired Zurich to support Gef’s 30 Under 30 as an award sponsor?
Nigel: We have been supporting 30 Under 30 since it began. When we heard about this exciting initiative, we jumped at the chance to get involved because it is perfectly aligned with our values and strategy to meet the needs and expectations of customers and employees, both today and in the future. In this context we understand that encouraging and nurturing talented young professionals is vital not only for the future of the Island, but also for our business.
Q: Why did Zurich choose to sponsor the Innovation Award?
Aalish: We are passionate about innovation and it is a key part of everything we do, from the personalised technology-led products we create for our customers, through to the career and personal development opportunities that are offered to employees. It’s also demonstrated by our sustainability achievements which include leading the way here on the Island with our investment in a solar power system which now provides around half of our annual electricity needs. As a young professional on the Isle of Man, I appreciate how Zurich creates opportunities to celebrate innovation, especially when it benefits our local community.
Q: What was your favourite part about this year’s 30 Under 30 Awards?
Aalish: Finding out about the amazing achievements and back stories of the winners and nominees was really exciting. It is so valuable to be recognised and supported in an increasingly competitive world and celebrating our accomplishments together with initiatives like 30 Under 30 will inspire the next generation.
Q: What does Zurich do as a business to support young people?
Aalish: Zurich’s commitment to supporting young talent through the start and development of their careers is something I can attest to personally. There are so many opportunities for growth, including studying alongside your career, online courses, our career development programme, and volunteering initiatives. We’ve just welcomed our 2024 cohort for our Summer Internship Programme, where students and graduates can get first-hand experience working as part of a global company. Creating opportunities for young people to step into the working world is a key part of how Zurich supports young professionals.
Q: Finally, what did you find most inspiring about the nominees and winners in the Innovation category?
Nigel: They were all super-talented innovators who have the qualities which are needed to build a bright, sustainable future for the Isle of Man. Here on the Island, and around the world, we’re living and working in an era of unprecedented change. At Zurich, we recognise the responsibility we have to help shape a better future. Encouraging creative, innovative people who have bright ideas, via initiatives such as 30 Under 30, is essential to turn that vision into reality.
