A career of growth: Sam Doherty’s development with Coversure

A career of growth: Sam Doherty’s development with Coversure

At Coversure, we are passionate about inspiring more women to pursue careers in the insurance industry. We spoke with Office Manager, Sam Doherty, about her career journey and her experiences in the industry. From starting as an Admin Assistant to playing a key role in the growth of Coversure Bromsgrove and Coversure Solihull, Sam’s trajectory highlights the opportunities available for women in the insurance industry.

From admin to Office Manager

After leaving school at 17, Sam applied for a position as an Admin Assistant in the claims team at NIG. “I didn’t initially seek out insurance, but once I started, it sparked something in me. I just loved the whole vibe and the variety of work was good for me, kept me busy”, she reflects. After two years, Sam moved on to a role with a Swinton franchise, where she met one of the key figures who would shape her future, John Chauhan. “The mix of client interaction and working with insurers was a perfect fit for me”, she says. When Swinton bought back their franchises in 1999, Sam’s team transitioned into the Coversure network.

Over the years, Sam has helped expand the business, playing a critical role in the acquisition of several additional franchises and brokers, as well as the recent merge of the Coversure Bromsgrove and Coversure Solihull franchises.

We started from the ground up, and now, after significant growth, we have a well-established and expanding business.

Sam Doherty, Office Manager at Coversure Bromsgrove

Adapting to growth with a multi-faceted role

As Coversure Solihull expanded, so too did Sam’s responsibilities. Initially, she took on a broad range of tasks, from client quotes to handling claims and new business. Over time, her role evolved and she became more involved in managing renewals, handling HR and overseeing the financial aspects of the business. Sam explains, “my role has completely changed, but the core principle of delivering exceptional client service and maintaining strong relationships is still at the heart of everything I do.”

Sam’s ability to take on a wide array of responsibilities and problem-solve in a fast-paced environment has been key to her career progression. “Early on, I was given the autonomy to make decisions and find solutions, which shaped my approach to leadership today”, she notes. “That freedom to learn and grow has been invaluable in my development.”

The power of mentorship

Throughout her career, Sam has benefited from the guidance of key mentors. She credits John and Mina Chauhan, the previous directors of Coversure Northfield, for giving her the space to learn and grow, as they “trusted me to take ownership of tasks and provided the support I needed to develop problem-solving skills. That sense of trust and independence really helped my professional growth.”

In recent years, Paul Woodford, the current director of Coversure Bromsgrove and Coversure Solihull, has also provided critical mentorship. “Paul has been brilliant in offering support and guidance, particularly when I need reassurance. He can always offer a fresh perspective which is just invaluable.”

Creating a supportive and inclusive workplace

Sam acknowledges that while some women in the insurance industry face challenges, her personal experience has been positive. “I’ve been fortunate enough to work with people who have been supportive and trusted me”, she says. “From the outset, I was given the flexibility to manage my role and balance work with my personal life, which made a real difference.”

At Coversure, Sam emphasises the company’s commitment to inclusivity and the importance of creating a work environment that nourishes respect, collaboration and open communication. “Our team is diverse, with more women than men in our workforce – 21 women and 16 men – and recruitment is a key focus for us. We see potential in people and we actively create an environment that allows everyone, regardless of gender, to thrive,” she explains.

Coversure’s approach to inclusivity extends beyond gender, with a focus on ensuring that all employees, regardless of background, have the opportunity to succeed. “We don’t tolerate negativity or miscommunication; any issues are addressed immediately,” Sam notes. “Our goal is to maintain a supportive environment where everyone can contribute to the team’s success.”

We prioritise building individual relationships with our staff, making sure they feel valued and heard. Our directors make it a point to know each team member personally, which helps build a strong, cohesive culture.

Sam Doherty, Office Manager at Coversure Bromsgrove

Navigating work-life balance

Balancing work and personal life can be challenging in a fast-paced industry like insurance. Sam admits that it is something she continues to work on as she tends to immerse herself in projects which sometimes makes it difficult to disconnect. However, the flexibility offered by Coversure allows her to manage her responsibilities effectively. “The key is incorporating mindfulness and self-care into your day. A quick walk or some fresh air helps me reset”, she adds.

Despite the demands of the job, Sam notes that a supportive leadership team has helped her find a balance between work and personal commitments. “It’s not always easy but being part of a company that values flexibility makes it more manageable”, she explains.

The role of women in shaping the future of insurance

Sam is optimistic about the growing influence of women in the insurance industry as they “bring a unique perspective that complements the skills and experiences of our male colleagues. In our business, we’ve seen that women can often build strong, empathetic relationships with clients, which is a real benefit in this industry.”

Sam believes that a diverse team enhances the company’s overall performance because “having a mix of skills, personalities and experiences makes us better equipped to meet the needs of our clients and drive business growth,” she explains. She also notes that women’s contributions extend to networking and business development, where they bring valuable insights and expertise.

As Sam reflects on her career, she is committed to continuing her growth within the Coversure network. She remains dedicated to the company’s continued success and is eager to see the team grow and thrive.

“I would love to see the business double in size, to become a flagship office within the Coversure/Jensten group. This business has been a part of my life for many years and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished. The most rewarding part of my career has been the relationships I’ve built with colleagues and clients. It’s about the people, and that’s what makes this job so fulfilling.

Sam Doherty, Office Manager at Coversure Bromsgrove

Advice for women pursuing careers in insurance

For women entering the insurance industry or looking to advance in their careers, Sam offers this advice: “Be open to learning. Every task, every interaction is an opportunity to grow. Take the knowledge and feedback from everyone around you, regardless of their title or experience level. The industry is constantly evolving, and you need to be adaptable and proactive to succeed. Don’t be afraid to take on new responsibilities and expand your skillset. The more you learn, the more you’ll advance.

A bright future for women in insurance

Sam Doherty’s career in the insurance industry demonstrates the potential for women to lead, grow and succeed in this sector. Her journey highlights the importance of mentorship, inclusivity and continuous learning in shaping a successful career. As the insurance industry continues to evolve, women like Sam are playing a key role in driving innovation and creating a culture of collaboration. Whether you are just starting out or looking to take the next step in your career, Sam’s experience provides valuable insights into what it takes to thrive in the insurance industry.

Are you ready to join our inclusive and supportive network?

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