What's your job about?

Allianz is a global financial services company that provides insurance and asset management to individuals, businesses, and institutions worldwide. As a graduate in the Program Delivery team within Commercial Operations, my role is all about supporting projects that make our work more efficient and innovative.

Each day kicks off with a team meeting where we share updates on exciting projects and brainstorm new ideas. My main tasks involve working with different teams to ensure everyone is on the same page and helping to analyse data that informs our strategies. I also assist in implementing digital tools that make our work faster and smarter.

One of the cool parts of my job is helping organise workshops where we learn new ways to solve problems and think creatively. These sessions are like mini boot camps that equip us with skills to tackle any challenge.

Throughout the week, I get to participate in various projects that sharpen my skills and keep me informed about what's happening in the industry. This ongoing learning helps us improve how we do things and ensures we deliver great service to our clients.

In simple terms, my job is like being part of a team of problem-solvers, always looking for better ways to do things. It's perfect for someone who loves a good challenge and wants to make a real difference in the world of insurance and finance.

What's your background?

I grew up in Sydney and have always been curious about how things work - whether it was business, technology, or just life in general. That curiosity led me to study at UTS, where I did a double degree: a Bachelor of Business (majoring in Finance) and a Bachelor of Science in IT (majoring in Networking and Cybersecurity).

While studying, I worked as an accountant for a small company for three years, which gave me heaps of hands-on experience with finance and problem-solving. But I wanted to see the bigger picture - how businesses actually run and evolve, so I joined Allianz in the General Insurance Leadership graduate program. Over the past year, I’ve rotated through Enterprise Transformation, Risk Management, and now Commercial Operations. Each role has been a whole new learning experience, helping me build my skills in strategy, innovation, and leadership.

Outside of work, I absolutely love travelling! My family is Italian, so I spent a lot of my childhood visiting Italy, which gave me a deep appreciation for different cultures (and, of course, amazing food). Those experiences have shaped the way I think, helping me stay open-minded and adaptable - two things that are super important in any career.

Being part of Allianz has been an incredible journey so far. I’ve learned so much, met some brilliant people, and gained exposure to different parts of the business. I can’t wait to see where this experience takes me next!

Could someone with a different background do your job?

Yes, someone with a different background could do my job. While having a foundational understanding of finance can be beneficial, the key characteristics for success in this role include strong analytical skills, adaptability, and effective communication. Being a proactive problem-solver and having a collaborative mindset are also crucial. Skills in project management and familiarity with agile methodologies can be advantageous. Ultimately, a willingness to learn and grow, combined with a passion for improving processes and supporting team success, can enable someone from any background to thrive in this position.

What's the coolest thing about your job?

The best thing about my job is seeing the direct impact of my efforts on improving team efficiency and client satisfaction. I especially enjoy projects where we get to use the latest tech to make our work faster and smarter. It's incredibly rewarding when a solution I've helped develop leads to noticeable improvements and positive feedback from colleagues and clients. These moments show me that I'm making a real difference and keep me excited about what’s next.

What are the limitations of your job?

One of the limitations of my job is the need to balance multiple priorities simultaneously, which can sometimes be challenging and requires strong time management skills. The role demands a high level of responsibility, as decisions made can significantly impact team performance and client outcomes. While not physically demanding, the job can be mentally taxing, especially during peak periods or when implementing major changes. Additionally, occasional long hours or tight deadlines may arise, requiring flexibility and dedication. It's essential for someone considering this role to be comfortable with dynamic environments and have a proactive approach to managing stress and workload.