Karol (AGCS Singapore)

Executive Assistant to Regional CEO AGCS Asia Pacific/MENA

How did you hear about AGCS?

In 2003 I joined Allianz Marine & Aviation in London. Allianz is the number one insurer in the Slovakian market (where I come from). However, I only stumbled across AGCS by coincidence and what a lucky coincidence it was.

What makes AGCS different from other insurers and why did you choose to apply here?

People often say that after graduation, one doesn’t normally aspire for a career in the insurance industry. The same applied to me. I took a year off from my university studies and travelled to London where I studied English. I was offered an Allianz internship while I worked at a coffee shop.

What was your first day at AGCS like? Any specific moments that you remember?

When I joined, the London office was spread across one floor in Minster Court. I remember my colleagues were friendly and I quickly established a close network of friends. On my first day, my computer and landline were not ready but I didn’t mind and was just grateful for the opportunity to learn about the insurance business.

What do you like best about working at AGCS?

Best? That must be the variety of job opportunities available across the globe. You see, I joined AGCS in London, later moved to Munich and am now working in Singapore. There are not many employers that could offer you this kind of experience. I really enjoy working across different cultures and locations. It makes my job both exciting and enriching.

What does a typical working day in your current role entail?

Every day is different. While there is a certain repetition of tasks i.e. project meetings, the preparation of management meetings and board presentations, the topics are varied and provide great learning opportunities. Additionally, there are always ad-hoc analyses and projects that I have to work on. 2010 was the year of integrations in Asia-Pacific MENA. AGCS took over three Allianz legal entities in the region which incorporated Japan, Hong Kong and Singapore.

Can you describe your job in three sentences?

• Work on the integration of Japan, Hong Kong and Singapore into AGCS.
• Liaise between AGCS Munich and Asia-Pacific / MENA region.
• Coordinate AGCS regional activities in Dubai, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand.

What was your biggest achievement at AGCS so far?

It must be my solid understanding of our processes and systems. Working previously in Risk Management, Internal Audit, Branch Carve Out Team (BCOT) and now being an Executive Assistant, I understand the importance and dependencies of our systems & processes. Perhaps one more thing, after my manager’s sudden departure from AGCS in late 2009, I managed to continue with three integration projects in Europe and worked on the establishment of BCOT.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years from now? What would you like to achieve?

I hope to have a solid career runway with Allianz. Based on my experience so far, a five year plan within an ever changing environment proves to be a challenge however I strive to deliver great work in whatever I do and to learn as much as I can from each experience.