Team Tuesday: Meet our Senior Underwriting Manager, Shane O’Connor

Where did you begin your career?

“My first job was bartending at my local tennis club, which I’d recommend to everyone. It’s a great way to meet different characters and develop communication skills.

Professionally, it was with Pepper Asset Services in 2015 when I finished college in Shannon, Co. Clare.”

What is the best career advice you’ve ever been given?

“Build your network and never burn bridges. This is a small industry so building your network and maintaining good relationships is vital.

When joining a new business, it’s important that you prove yourself by doing and getting stuck in – people need to see that you are genuine. This will help you build your network organically.

It has become evident to me how important the contacts I’ve built throughout my career can be and how they can come back around and help resolve a problem within my current role.”

What tips would you give to someone starting in your profession?

“Don’t be afraid to ask questions. College is great to build a foundation but learning on the job is invaluable.

Starting out in a new role is always daunting but by asking as many questions as you can, no matter how silly you may think they sound, will really help you to excel at a faster pace. It will also show your enthusiasm for the role.”

What is your greatest professional achievement to date?

“That’s an easy one! I was recently promoted to Senior Underwriting Manager in Onate. It’s always a great achievement to get promoted.

However, doing it with Onate, a company I joined less than 18 months ago, at the start of its journey, makes it all the sweeter.”

Tell us something people may not know about you

“When I was a year old, I crawled through the bannisters of a winding staircase on the third floor of a hotel and somehow escaped any injury (that I’m aware of)! I’m a cat with nine lives, with about five left!”