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Welcome to “Behind the Desk”, a JSS Series highlighting our consultants’ specific expertise and their on-the-ground experience in guiding businesses and professionals through the intricacies of their sector’s recruitment market.
In this edition, we feature Mark Heagney, who leads the Financial Services function at JSS Transform. Explore how Mark provides valuable insights into this sector, offering strategic advice to clients and candidates. Discover his perspectives on the future of the sector, emerging trends, and how businesses can utilise the market to stay ahead.
Meet Mark: Leading Insurance Change at JSS Transform
I’m an Associate Director at JSS Transform, where I lead the financial services practice, focusing on insurance transformation. My career began in the legal field, but after transitioning to recruitment, I’ve been involved in the insurance sector for the past 13 years. I spent seven of those at an FTSE 250-listed agency dedicated to the insurance market, and for the last five years, I’ve been at JSS, building and overseeing our insurance change practice.
What type of businesses do you typically support?
I typically support businesses undergoing significant transformation – whether they’re implementing a new system, merging with another organisation, or adapting to new insurance regulations. My role is to help them build the right team to navigate these changes, particularly with industry-specific insurance-related systems.
I mainly work with insurance companies, international services, and those backed by private equity, often during periods of growth or integration driven by investments. We cover both interim and permanent roles, from senior positions like COO, CIO, and Heads of Programmes and Change down to change delivery roles such as business analysts and project managers, as well as tech-focused positions.
Navigating Transformation in Financial Services
How has the transformation industry evolved over the past year?
The market has remained steady but driven by a few key trends. We’ve seen a surge in private acquisitions, leading to a lot of integration work as companies merge and consolidate. Digitalisation has been another major factor, with many businesses investing in new systems to keep up with market demands and improve automation. This push toward modernisation has kept the industry busy, as most strive to stay competitive.
Are there any emerging trends you think businesses and candidates should be aware of?
One trend I’ve noticed is the increasing need for specialisation in a niche. This could be from a technical perspective, like having experience with a specific system, or from an industry standpoint. In particular, financial services or private equity expertise has become especially valuable for the insurance sector.
Additionally, there have been recent changes to IR35 rules, so it’s important both clients and contractors stay informed and up to date on these developments.
Talent Strategies in Business Transformation
How do you tailor your approach to find the best match for everyone?
I believe honesty will always be the key to finding the best match. When I take a brief from a client, I make sure to get a clear and specific understanding of what they need – whether it’s salary limitations, working environment, or other details. Then, when we engage with candidates, we’re upfront about these factors. This approach saves time and ensures the candidates we put forward are a genuine match.
We also stay in close contact with our clients because transformation needs can shift quickly. By regularly communicating with them, we can adjust our approach and update our shortlists as needed, keeping everyone aligned throughout the process. This is also helped by the network I’ve built up over the last 13 years, which means I know many of those available on the market and quickly turn around on requirements.
How do you stay updated on market trends?
I tend to stay updated by regularly reading industry press, which keeps me informed about new regulations or potential waves of mergers. This foresight helps us anticipate the needs of businesses and guide them on the types of candidates they’ll require for upcoming changes. Additionally, I make a point to speak with people on the ground, which gives us a real-time sense of what’s likely to emerge. This combination of research and direct communication helps us stay ahead of the curve and offer our network the most relevant advice.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Insurance Transformation
What is the outlook for insurance transformation over the next 6-months?
The market appears steady and will likely remain that way. Financial services and insurance are essential to every business, so the need for change and transformation will persist even with market fluctuations.
Again, it’s becoming increasingly clear is that companies are placing a higher value on specialised knowledge – whether in specific industries or systems. As businesses continue to navigate market and economic changes, those with a deep expertise in their field are going to be well-positioned for success.
What advice would you offer businesses and transformation professionals over the next year?
For businesses, I would advise prioritising company culture, even for contracted positions. Having strong onboarding processes and ensuring consistent support can make a big difference to retaining staff and contractors. Effective communication with both permanent and contract staff can also help create a more productive and positive environment. Also, finding a balance between permanent and contract resources will always be important. This flexibility allows companies to adapt quickly to changing needs, while having the right expertise on board.
Additionally, it’s important companies remain competitive with their compensation. With so many opportunities and changes happening, offering attractive packages will help businesses attract and retain the talent with the experience needed for successful implementation.
For candidates, my advice is to keep progressing. With new technologies and evolving markets, continuous professional development will not only open up new opportunities but also give them a competitive edge over their peers.
For more insights into insurance transformation and to explore how we can support your professional or business growth, connect with Mark on LinkedIn or reach out via email at Mark.Heagney@jss-transform.com.