We’re shining a spotlight on Annie Collins, a key member of NPRe’s executive support team in her role as Assistant Company Secretary:
Can you describe your NPRe journey?
I started with the parent group NFG Europe in April 2022 and then joined its subsidiary NPRe in January 2025. My journey here has been rewarding and fast-paced, with the past four years flying by. I was drawn to the opportunity to support leadership in a role that’s both varied and impactful. Over time, with much support from the Company Secretary, I have developed my skills in governance, organisation and stakeholder communication, while gaining a deeper understanding of the business and how different teams work together. Working within such a large financial group has allowed me to grow in ways that have opened so many doors for me, and I look forward to what lies ahead.
What was the journey that brought you to NPRe?
When I left school, I started my career in customer service in retail stores. I enjoyed interacting with people, but after a while I fancied a change. I wanted to broaden my knowledge and gain office experience, so I landed a job as an insurance broker close to where I lived. I enjoyed the work and, after a few years, I decided to branch out to London.
All my previous roles have proven extremely valuable, giving me a strong set of transferable skills that I use in my current role. Working as a broker helped me develop attention to detail, commercial awareness, and the ability to manage complex information and deadlines, while customer-facing roles strengthened my communication and relationship-building skills. These past experiences helped me to secure my position with NFG Europe. I’ve never looked back and love coming into work every day!
Since joining NPRe, my focus has been broadening my knowledge as an Assistant Company Secretary, so I haven’t been directly involved in broker work. However, I am currently completing my CII qualification, which allows me to continue building my understanding of the industry and keeps my options open as my career develops.
In your role, you’re responsible for organising many senior leaders’ diaries, tracking business developments and overseeing certain operations. What are your organisational strategies to ensure you stay on top of your work and balance competing priorities?
I rely on clear communication and flexibility. I like to write things down and love a sticky note and regular check-ins to ensure priorities are aligned and nothing is overlooked. I also stay adaptable as things can change quickly, and being proactive helps me anticipate issues before they arise.
What advice would you give to people beginning a career in executive support?
My advice would be to be proactive and never underestimate the value of strong communication skills. Building trust, paying attention to detail, having a can-do attitude, and being willing to learn from every situation is key. It’s also important to stay organised.
What is your favourite way to relax once you leave the office?
After work, I like to unwind by going for walks, spending time with my partner, or my nieces and nephew, or watching the Traitors!
How do you enjoy spending time outside of work?
Outside of work, I enjoy socialising with friends, pamper days, going to the theatre, staying active and spending time at home or with my family. It’s important to maintain a good work-life balance and make time for things that help me relax and reset.