INTRODUCING: Patrick Nickel.
Meet Patrick! He is always looking for his next trip or adventure, which is fitting as he spends a lot of time on the road meeting with clients across the country as a member of our in-house Risk Management team. He provides insight into the Risk Management Advisor role as part of our most recent Employee Q&A session.
WHAT DOES YOUR DAY-TO-DAY LOOK LIKE?
My role primarily involves meeting with business owners to discuss risk management strategies. For example, I’ll go to meet a client that we have brought onto the program and do a tour of their building or business operations and we will discuss loss prevention strategies or risk strategies to reduce their exposures and potential for claims.
WHAT IS SOMETHING THAT PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR Role?
Probably the fact that I get to travel so much. Usually I get to go on a trip once a month to places in British Columbia, Alberta or rural towns around the prairies. There is a lot of flexibility with the position and the travel is definitely a huge bonus.
HOW DID YOU START WORKING HERE?
I was actually out for dinner with someone who worked here and got on the topic of work and they suggested that I apply for the position. My background is in engineering and construction, so when it comes to performing duties in my role like surveying commercial buildings, my prior experience really fit in.
BIGGEST ACCOMPLISHMENT WHILE WORKING HERE?
This job has encouraged me to pursue further education and has supported me while I get certain professional designations. Since I have started working here I have been able to get my “Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker” accreditation and I am currently taking the Canadian Risk Management program at the University of Winnipeg. So just having the support of your employer to be able to pursue different educational avenues is really amazing.
WHAT IS YOUR ELEVATOR PITCH FOR SOMEONE WHO IS LOOKING TO JOIN OUR Company?
I think our unique product and service offering is one of the best parts about working here. I believe in the premise of the way we sell insurance. We aren’t just a regular broker, the idea of providing businesses with pooled programs and self-insurance is unique, and in my opinion a better product. Aside from the services we provide, I also like the autonomy of Western Financial Group Insurance Solutions. They provide a lot of freedom and support to allow people to pursue their goals, whether that be professionally or in a personal capacity.