Actuaries
Assuming that the actuary in your life already has a calculator, slide rule and the requisite number of fingers to grind through tough calculations, then the caring present buyer sho …
Actuaries
Assuming that the actuary in your life already has a calculator, slide rule and the requisite number of fingers to grind through tough calculations, then the caring present buyer should opt for something safe and sensible. A pair of slippers may well fit the bill.
Brokers
Although it is tempting to buy furry dice and other ironic accessories for your broker's luxury car, a pack or two of smelling salts could be the order of Christmas Day. Brokers are likely to need these in the New Year as they try to pass on rate rises caused by the capacity crisis.
Claims managers
Working in their call centres, claims managers are under pressure to make decisions fast. There are two ways of doing this. One requires logic, skill and reasoning to decide whether claims can be paid or referred. The other, much faster, involves tossing a coin. This is crude but can be refined by the use of a Magic Eight Ball or some finely crafted dice.
Loss adjusters
By nature loss adjusters are resourceful. Their cars are stacked with all the essentials needed for successful surveys: wellies, clipboards and lie detectors. But in a harsh world where clients don't understand that a loss adjuster is paid to adjust claims downwards, the ideal present this Christmas is a teddy bear. A cuddly bear can be kept in the car at all times ready to give the love and affection needed after delivering a significant adjust.
Risk managers
After being revived by smelling salts (see above), risk managers will be looking for something special to get them through the New Year. A pair of ear-muffs serves a dual purpose. It keeps ears warm when out on site carrying out risk surveys and muffles the sound of the finance department's laughter when passing on news of premium rises.
Underwriters
Low interest rates and poor equity returns mean pressure for underwriters. Chief executives are calling for a return to technical and profitable underwriting. For those who cannot remember the last time underwriters made a profit, a prayer book may be the ideal present. Judicious use may avert storms, earthquakes and other Acts of God.
