Gray, number-heavy and unsexy: For a long time, the insurance industry didn't exactly enjoy the best reputation and struggled against a shortage of skilled workers. But like many other industries, it must constantly respond to new challenges in society and continually expand its range of products and services. Big Data, artificial intelligence, personalization: Especially in the digital age, transparency and individualized customer approaches are a must. Creativity and a passion for new things are more in demand than ever in the insurance industry.
Peter Kappeler, CEO of Pax, can also confirm this. He looks back on a successful 20-year career in the insurance world. The industry is often referred to as the "house of countless professions". This is especially convenient for those who have made their career choice rather by chance, like Mr. Kappeler. As part of our "5 Questions for..." series, we talked to him about his career.
If you had not pursued a career in the insurance industry, what would have become of you?
"Like probably many others, I ended up in the insurance industry rather by chance 20 years ago. In all those years, I've never regretted taking the step because it's a very exciting industry with lots of changes and a lot of potential, and because I've always been able to develop further within the industry. I like to pursue my numerous other interests as a hobby in my spare time."
What would you work for free for a week?
"A few years ago, there were still programs in various companies that enabled senior management to spend several weeks in a social institution in the sense of a "change of sides". This opens up horizons and ensures that people stay grounded. An idea for which I still have many sympathies."
What was the best professional advice you ever received?
"I have learned that it is less important whether decisions are right or wrong. It is more important that they are comprehensible. That's why I make decisions on an analytical basis. Anything else is either too emotional or too risky."
What event in your career do you remember most fondly?
"To moments when you could feel that an idea or a vision, for which you have committed yourself - sometimes against opposition - becomes successful. With the experience gained from such moments, one is armed for future challenges with headwinds."
Who or what inspires and excites you?
"When a good cooperation on a professional as well as on a human level leads to a positive "flow", probably the best results and also an inner satisfaction arise. A dynamic team spirit inspires me a lot."
We would like to thank Mr. Kappeler for his contribution to this article. This interview was conducted in writing.
Editor: Neslihan Steiner
Batterman Consulting Basel AG
Executive Search,
Byfangweg 1a, CH-4051 Basel
T +41 58 680 55 55
basel@batterman.ch
