Hiscox managing director Sian Fisher shares her enthusiasms.
What newspaper do you read?
I more regularly listen to Radio 4
What career did you want to have when you were a child?
When I was six I was desperate to be a ballerina
What was the worst business decision you have ever made?
Asking a US lawyer to help me with a policy wording. £30,000 later I was none the wiser. He did tell me a very funny joke, which it's arguable, was worth more than his advice!
What do you like best about insurance?
That it could be so much better
What would you do tomorrow if you left the insurance industry?
Sleep a lot and then travel
How do you relax if you do not play golf?
Reading and going to the movies
What is the biggest insurance claim you have ever made?
I can't remember making one
Who do you most admire?
The current secretary-general of the UN Kofi Annan for his integrity
Do you have an unfulfilled ambition?
I would like to be able to speak another language fluently
On dress down Friday, what do you wear?
We have permanent dress down at Hiscox. I always wear something with black trousers
How many people have you sacked?
I have always put huge efforts into recruiting in preference to sacking
What is your favourite quote?
“Never trust a man who when left alone in a room with a tea cosy doesn't try it on” Billy Connolly
What is your most over-used phrase?
“Does anyone know where I left my handbag/glasses/briefcase…?”
What keeps you awake at night?
A great idea or too much champagne. The latter has been known to delude me about the former
What advice would you give someone starting in insurance today?
Don't think the only job worth having is risk underwriting. Get as broad an experience of the whole industry as you can
What was your first job?
A waitress in a coffee shop
Where did you grow up?
In a village called Wombourne in the West Midlands
What was your education?
Varied and continues to be
What is your favourite film?
Breakfast at Tiffany's
What is your favourite book?
Possession by AS Byatt
What is your favourite tea?
Earl Grey
What is your favourite joke?
Ann Widdecombe
How often do you use public transport?
Every day
Who do you vote for?
Too embarrassing to remember
How did you vote in the last election?
Much too embarrassing to remember
Are you in favour of the Euro? Yes/No?
I'm not an economist but as a traveller all the different currencies drive me mad
