What is your role?
I carry out most of the operational, financial and compliance duties as well as looking after the needs of a diverse client portfolio mostly in the haulage, construction, retail and leisure industries.
How long have you been with the firm?
I joined Murphy Insurance in 2007 as part of a planned succession, becoming a partner with Brian Murphy in 2010. Along with John McQuaid, I took over the business from Brian in 2015 and we rebranded as Blue Rock Insurance Brokers in 2018.
What was your background before that?
I was employed by a large national broker in various customer-facing roles, from YTS office junior through to Branch Manager and Director. I set up the firm’s first English branch from a standing start in 1997.
What are your special skills?
Accuracy, problem-solving, problem-avoiding, an unnatural love of small print and the ability to apparently look quite grumpy whilst actually feeling pretty happy.
What do you get up to outside of work?
I’ve always had an interest in motorcycles – spannering on them as much as riding them. I enjoy watching the odd couple of laps of MotoGP races before my wife or daughters change the channel. I’m a member of the Scotland Rugby Supporters Club and usually get along to a couple of the Six Nations games each year.
What is your guilty pleasure?
I’m a big Neil Diamond fan. Not much of a secret as I have been known to do a full set list at the Karaoke with very little encouragement.
What is your favourite quote?
“Don’t stop. Never give up. Hold your head high and reach the top” – S Club 7