How Mentorship and Adaptability Shaped My Career in Claims Consulting

By: Shanna Moody

When I decided to make a change from my role in legal defence, my priority was finding a better work-life balance without losing the sense of challenge I valued. When I shared my aspirations with managers, they engaged with the wider business to explore opportunities that would allow me to stay within Gallagher Bassett. Those conversations led to my move into Consultancy Solutions.

Julian Nicklin, head of Claims Consultancy, recalls those discussions: "Gallagher is committed to listening to its employees and adapting to their needs. When Shanna expressed her desire to make lifestyle changes, the company took proactive steps to understand her needs and find the right role that would keep her valuable skillset within the organisation."

The support I've received has been exceptional. My new managers are caring and involved, giving me the freedom to work independently. Their trust has been empowering and has shaped how I approach my work. I've found the move from a legal to a claims mindset has made me more confident and proactive. In consultancy, the goal is clear: Deliver the best outcomes for clients efficiently and strategically. It's about looking at each claim with fresh eyes, identifying the core issues, and applying practical solutions.

My legal background is a huge advantage. A good attention to detail can significantly impact the direction of a claim. Recently, I reviewed a case where a denial had been disputed. By re-examining the evidence, I spotted an overlooked point that completely shifted the outcome, saving the client significant costs and avoiding prolonged litigation. Experiences like this remind me how valuable transferable skills can be when applied to new fields.

Julian has seen the impact of this expertise first-hand: "One of Shanna's first projects with the Claims Consultancy team involved managing sub-£100k casualty claims. Her intelligence and practical approach streamlined the claims process and reduced the need for subcontracted talent. This not only saved costs but also allowed her peers to share in her knowledge accumulated from her previous role, fostering a culture of growth and collaboration within the team."

What makes this journey so rewarding is Gallagher Bassett's culture. This organisation invests in its people not just through qualifications and training, but through everyday support and trust. If you're dedicated and eager to learn, Gallagher Bassett will go above and beyond to help you succeed. Constructive feedback, encouragement, and flexibility are part of the fabric here, and that has made all the difference in my development.

My transition wasn't part of a formal pathway; It evolved organically from open conversations and a willingness to embrace change. The skills I developed in my previous role were highly transferable, making the move mutually beneficial for me and the business. Today, I'm continuing my professional development by working toward my diploma in insurance, with Gallagher Bassett supporting me every step of the way.

Julian offers advice for anyone considering a similar move: "For colleagues contemplating a move into Claims Consultancy, Shanna's journey serves as an inspiring example of how a well-rounded skillset and proactive attitude can lead to new opportunities. The key is to remain open to change, communicate your aspirations, and leverage your existing expertise in new and innovative ways. Gallagher's commitment to its employees' growth and wellbeing ensures that such transitions are not only possible but also highly rewarding."

If there's one thing I've learned, it's that a career at Gallagher Bassett is full of possibilities. With the right mindset and support, you can shape a path that aligns with your goals and makes a real impact on clients.

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