Spotlight on… Sara Newell, Sales Director within PIB’s Schemes and Affinities division

<span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 18px;">May 15, 2020</span>

This is the sixth part in our spotlight series of talented and interesting people across PIB Group. Today the spotlight falls on Sara Newell, Sales Director within PIB’s Schemes and Affinities division. In this interview, Sarah shares her career journey including the ability to be creative inside and outside of work, her biggest achievements and best piece of careers advice.

Tell us a bit about yourself…

I was born in Wiltshire, but I have spent the last 20 years working in the insurance industry based in Gloucestershire. Unsurprisingly I fell into insurance, and my first role was managing a branch on the high street. I’ve held numerous other roles including heading up a 300-seat contact centre, managing Product and Pricing teams as well as Sales and Marketing functions. Working in the insurance industry has provided me with a wide range of skills and more importantly the ability to be creative, whether that’s developing a new product or solving a problem.

What do you enjoy most about PIB Group?

I’ve been with PIB for two years now and there are three main areas that give me lots of enjoyment. Firstly, it’s the people, I’ve have built some great relationships with people across our different businesses. Second has to be the focus on Niche and the opportunity to differentiate our propositions and finally, I enjoy the challenge and drive for growth.

What is your biggest achievement?

I think my biggest achievement is anytime that I have inspired, supported or driven someone to take a leap, push a little harder or try something new.

From a personal perspective I think my biggest achievement has been juggling my commitments; my career, bringing up a teenage son and managing my relationships with friends and family. It’s not always pretty but I do seem to get it done.

What is your best piece of careers advice?

My best piece of careers advice is to say yes more! In addition to securing new career opportunities and learning new skills, I’ve found that by saying yes to things I’ve become more positive and confident in my abilities and have built stronger relationships.

What keeps you busy outside of work?

In my down time I love to be outdoors, I like to travel and photograph wildlife, particularly large predators. My favourite place to is Africa, although I think my travel plans will be a little closer to home for the next few months.