Beyond the Desk with Mark Thomas – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

Technical and general information from the podcast's RSS feed.

Beyond the Desk with Mark Thomas

Mark Thomas

Business

Frequency: 1 episode/20d. Total Eps: 30

The Insurance Leadership Podcast! Hosted by Mark Thomas (and various guest hosts), one of the UK's leading senior appointments search executives, this podcast brings you exclusive interviews with the most influential names and brightest minds leading insurance globally. Each week, Mark dives deep into the career journeys, pivotal moments, success stories and resilience that have shaped the careers of these global insurance leaders. You will gain insights, inspiration, and insider perspectives from the leaders who are redefining the industry's future right now! 🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. 📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJL5z9-RSWJj3BKCKa-MQ6g 💻 Connect with us on LinkedIn for more insights and thought leadership www.linkedin.com/company/beyondthedeskpodcast Join the conversation, follow us and explore the fascinating world of insurance careers like never before! Website: https://beyond-the-desk.captivate.fm

Recent rankings

Latest chart positions across Apple Podcasts and Spotify rankings.

Apple Podcasts

🇬🇧 Great Britain - careers
14/08/2026
#64
🇬🇧 Great Britain - careers
13/08/2026
#37
🇬🇧 Great Britain - careers
12/08/2026
#32
🇬🇧 Great Britain - careers
09/08/2026
#81

Shared links between episodes and podcasts

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/markthomas0/
39 shares
https://www.linkedin.com/company/beyondthedeskpodcast
22 shares
https://www.linkedin.com/company/beyondthedeskpodcast/
13 shares

RSS feed quality and score

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RSS feed quality

Good

Score global : 73%

Publication history

Monthly episode publishing history over the past years.

Year

Latest published episodes

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Beyond The Desk - Trailer

Friday, January 17, 2025 • Duration 01:31

Beyond the Desk is THE insurance careers podcast.

The first episode is launching on Tuesday, 28th January.

Watch full-length episodes on YouTube and connect with us on Linkedin for more content and insights.

Read moreCollapse

How AI and Data Are Reshaping the Insurance Landscape with David Tuppen, Chief Data Officer at Enstar

Season 1 · Episode 6

Tuesday, March 4, 2025 • Duration 01:08:03

In this episode of Beyond the Desk, host Mark Thomas sits down with David, a seasoned Chief Data Officer with a rich background in consulting and insurance. David shares his professional journey, the pivotal decisions that shaped his career, and his thoughts on the evolving role of data in the insurance sector.

From his early days in South Africa to leading data strategy in major insurance firms across the UK and Bermuda, David offers an insider’s perspective on how data-driven decision-making is transforming the industry. We also discuss the impact of AI and GenAI, how organizations are navigating the data landscape, and why structured, trusted data is more critical than ever.

Key Topics Covered:

David’s Career Journey – From starting in IT to becoming a CDO, including his experiences in South Africa, the UK, and Bermuda.

Transitioning from Consulting to Industry – The pros and cons of both worlds and why he ultimately chose to settle in the industry.

Data & AI in Insurance – How AI and machine learning are being leveraged in the sector, the importance of structured data, and the challenges of implementing AI-driven solutions.

The Evolution of Data Governance – Why companies are moving away from data silos and back toward a centralized approach.

Leadership & Career Advice – David’s insights on taking risks, building a strategic career plan, and the importance of exposure to different facets of the business.

Connect with Us:

Mark Thomas on LinkedIn: Connect Here
Follow Beyond the Desk on LinkedIn: Follow Here
Watch Full-Length Video Episodes on YouTube Here

From Trainee Underwriter to CEO: Andrew Passfield's journey to becoming ICE Insuretech's CEO

Season 1 · Episode 5

Tuesday, February 25, 2025 • Duration 01:05:13

In this episode of Beyond the Desk, host Mark Thomas sits down with Andrew Passfield, CEO and co-founder of ICE Insuretech, to discuss his remarkable journey from trainee underwriter to leading a successful InsurTech business.

Andrew shares his career story, pivotal moments, lessons learned, and insights on how ICE became a key player in the insurance technology space. They also explore how ICE grew through strategic customer partnerships, the importance of trusting your instincts, and the evolving role of AI in insurance.

Key Topics Discussed:

Andrew's early career in underwriting and transition into technology
How playing squash with an IT manager led to a programming career
Building ICE from scratch after redundancy
The strategic decision to develop ICE's claims and policy products
Pivotal wins, including the transformative RSA deal
The role of AI in shaping the future of insurance and ICE's product evolution
Advice for aspiring CEOs from a technology background

Connect with Us:

Mark Thomas on LinkedIn: Connect Here
Follow Beyond the Desk on LinkedIn: Follow Here
Watch Full-Length Video Episodes on YouTube Here
Connect with Andrew on LinkedIn: Connect Here

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with colleagues who might find it valuable!

New episodes drop every Tuesday. Stay tuned for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of insurance and InsureTech. Thanks for tuning in—see you next time on ! 🎧

Shaping the Future of Insurance: Sandra Lewin on Transformation, Diversity & the Power of Your Network

Season 1 · Episode 4

Tuesday, February 18, 2025 • Duration 01:20:32

In this episode of Beyond the Desk, host Mark Thomas interviews Sandra Lewin, a transformation and operations expert, consultant, and host of the successful 100 Women in Insurance podcast.

Sandra shares her fascinating career journey, from growing up in Poland to navigating the Lloyd’s market, moving from broking to transformation, and eventually launching her own consulting career.

They discuss the challenges of change within the insurance sector, the impact of technology on the market, and why embracing diverse career paths is essential for growth. Sandra also dives into her passion for community-building and advocating for women in the industry.

Key Topics Covered:

✅ Sandra’s unconventional route into insurance and transformation

✅ Transitioning from broking to operations and project management

✅ The evolution of technology in insurance & the future of transformation

✅ How insurance can better market itself to attract top tech talent

✅ Why personal branding and networking are career game-changers

✅ The inspiration behind 100 Women in Insurance and the impact it’s making

✅ How businesses can balance flexible working with networking and career development

Connect with Us:

Mark Thomas on LinkedIn: Connect Here
Follow Beyond the Desk on LinkedIn: Follow Here
Watch Full-Length Video Episodes on YouTube Here

From Code to Strategy, Pablo Bawdekar's Journey into Insurance Architecture

Season 1 · Episode 3

Tuesday, February 11, 2025 • Duration 01:02:34

Welcome to another episode of Beyond the Desk, where we take a deep dive into the careers of influential leaders in technology, transformation, and operations within global insurance and insurtech.

In this episode of Beyond the Desk, host Mark Thomas sits down with Pablo Bawdekar, a seasoned Chief Architect with extensive experience in insurance and Insurtech.

Pablo shares his career journey, from his early fascination with technology to his transition into architecture and leadership roles within the industry. They explore pivotal career moments, challenges faced, and the evolving role of technology in the insurance sector.

Key Topics Covered:

Meet Pablo – Pablo shares his background, including his education, early passion for technology, and his journey into architecture and insurance.
Early Career & Transition into Insurance – How Pablo’s curiosity and diverse skill set led him to a career spanning consulting, enterprise architecture, and insurance transformation.
Key Learnings from Consulting and Industry Roles – Insights from working at EY and QBE, including lessons in leadership, strategy, and stakeholder management.
The Role of Architecture in Insurance – Understanding the importance of technology strategy, governance, and aligning IT solutions with business objectives.
Future of Technology in Insurance – Pablo’s take on AI, data-driven decision-making, and the challenges of digital transformation in the sector.
Advice for Aspiring Architects & Technology Leaders – Key takeaways for those looking to progress in technology and architecture roles within insurance.

Connect with Us:

Mark Thomas on LinkedIn: Connect Here
Pablo on LinkedIn: Connect Here

Navigating Transformation in Insurance with Sumesh Vijayakumar, Head of Claims Transformation at Beazley

Season 1 · Episode 2

Tuesday, February 4, 2025 • Duration 59:21

Welcome to another episode of Beyond the Desk, where we take a deep dive into the careers of influential leaders in technology, transformation, and operations within global insurance and insurtech.

This week, host Mark Thomas sits down with Sumesh Vijayakumar, Head of Claims Transformation at Beazley, to explore his journey to leading transformation initiatives in the insurance sector.

In this insightful conversation, Sumesh shares his unconventional entry into insurance, the evolution of his career through consulting and industry roles, and his views on the future of claims transformation. From the role of AI in claims to the importance of diverse industry experience, this episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone looking to advance in the insurance and transformation space.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

How Sumesh transitioned from pharmaceutical sciences to insurance and transformation roles.
The differences between working in consulting versus in-house insurance transformation.
Why claims transformation is now a priority and the key challenges the industry faces.
How AI and technology are reshaping the role of claims adjusters and decision-making in insurance.
The importance of cross-industry experience and why insurance should embrace external perspectives.
Key career lessons, including the value of continuous learning, adaptability, and building strong networks.

Connect with Us:

Mark Thomas on LinkedIn: Connect Here
Sumesh on LinkedIn: Connect Here
Follow Beyond the Desk on LinkedIn: Follow Here

From Law School to Insurance CIO with Reno Daigle, CIO & Head of Business Transformation at CNA Hardy

Season 1 · Episode 8

Tuesday, March 25, 2025 • Duration 01:03:43

In this episode of Beyond the Desk, host Mark Thomas sits down with Reno Daigle, CIO and Head of Business Transformation at CNA Hardy. Reno shares an inspiring journey from his early ambitions of practising law to becoming a global leader in insurance technology and transformation. He discusses pivotal career moments, how an MBA shifted his career trajectory, and the vital role of embracing change, technology, and transformation in driving organisational success.

Reno also delves into the evolving insurance landscape, highlighting the profound impacts of AI, automation, and data analytics on the industry's future. He emphasizes the human element in insurance, reminding us of the industry's crucial role in protecting and rebuilding lives.

Whether you're navigating your career or looking to understand technology - driven transformation in insurance, this conversation is packed with insights and inspiration.

Connect with Us:

Mark Thomas on LinkedIn: Connect Here
Follow Beyond the Desk on LinkedIn: Follow Here
Watch Full-Length Video Episodes on YouTube Here
Connect with Reno on LinkedIn: Connect Here

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with colleagues who might find it valuable!

New episodes drop every Tuesday. Stay tuned for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of insurance and InsureTech. Thanks for tuning in—see you next time on ! 🎧

Navigating modernisation through cloud and AI in Insurance with Matt Griffiths, Head of Cloud at Pheonix Group

Season 1 · Episode 7

Tuesday, March 11, 2025 • Duration 58:24

In this episode of Beyond the Desk, host Mark Thomas sits down with Matt Griffiths, Head of Cloud at Pheonix Group to explore his fascinating career journey from retail banking to becoming a leader in cloud and technology within the insurance sector.

Matt shares insights into the evolution of his career, the challenges he has faced, and the key lessons learned along the way.

Key Topics Discussed:

How Matt transitioned from customer-facing roles in banking to strategic technology leadership in insurance.
The impact of the Northern Rock financial crisis on his career and the valuable lessons it taught him.
Insights into cloud adoption and AI implementation in insurance and financial services.
The challenges of digital transformation in both the P&C and life & pensions sectors.
Key advice for professionals looking to pivot into more technical and strategic roles in insurance technology.
The significance of a strong, diverse team culture in delivering successful transformation projects
Future challenges and opportunities in cloud, AI, and digital transformation within insurance

Connect with Us:

Mark Thomas on LinkedIn: Connect Here
Follow Beyond the Desk on LinkedIn: Follow Here
Watch Full-Length Video Episodes on YouTube Here
Connect with Matt on LinkedIn: Connect Here

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with colleagues who might find it valuable!

New episodes drop every Tuesday. Stay tuned for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of insurance and InsureTech. Thanks for tuning in—see you next time on ! 🎧

Transformation as a Career: Mastering Change with David Greenwood, COO at IQUW

Season 1 · Episode 11

Tuesday, April 15, 2025 • Duration 01:06:35

In this week's episode of Beyond the Desk, Mark Thomas sits down with David Greenwood, Chief Operating Officer at IQUW, a leading Lloyd's specialty underwriter. David shares a rich account of his extensive career, from his early days at the National Rifle Association to his pivotal roles at PA Consulting, Barclays, Tesco Bank, and beyond. Known for his expertise in transformation, David dives into the essential elements that drive successful change, effective leadership, and continuous learning in the fast-evolving insurance industry.

Key Topics Covered:

Early career experiences and foundational moments
The journey from project management to executive leadership
Lessons learned from roles across diverse sectors, including insurance, banking, and consultancy
Insights on effective transformation and change management
Navigating the move from interim roles to permanent executive positions
The future of insurance: Technology, AI, and market differentiation
Importance of networking, relationship-building, and maintaining curiosity
Advice for professionals aiming for senior leadership roles

Connect with us:

Mark Thomas on LinkedIn: Connect Here
Follow Beyond the Desk on LinkedIn: Follow Here
Watch Full-Length Video Episodes on YouTube Here

Beyond the Desk with Mark Thomas – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

Recent rankings

Apple Podcasts

Shared links between episodes and podcasts

RSS feed quality and score

Publication history

Latest published episodes

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Beyond the Desk with Mark Thomas – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

Recent rankings

Apple Podcasts

Shared links between episodes and podcasts

LinkedIn34

Youtube3

RSS feed quality and score

Publication history

Latest published episodes

Similar podcasts and content

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

LinkedIn34

Youtube3

Apple Podcasts

Other3

Spotify