Brenda Todaro joined the AM&T team in Melbourne in November 2020. Whilst her time with the team has only been short it certainly has been sweet.
Brenda brings years of experience, knowledge and understanding to the team and even though most of the time has been spent working from home, her laughter has resonated through our team zoom calls and her personable approach when dealing with brokers shines through with positivity.
In our latest 5 minutes with the team interview, we get to know Brenda a little better.
Name: Brenda Todaro
Title: Underwriter
Years of Experience (at AM&T): started Nov 2020
Years of experience in the industry:
Overall, I have worked in the industry for over 36 years. I have taken a few breaks in that time to for family life and raising my three children.
What was your first ever job?
A couple of weeks before turning 18 (I won’t divulge what year that was) I started in the Claims Department at MLC General Insurance in Melbourne. I was registering new claims, appointing assessors, typing claims cheques on a typewriter! It was a case of ‘the cheque is in the mail’ as they used to say.
What have you liked most about working at AM&T?
Although it has only been a short time, I have really enjoyed being part of such a great team. It’s been great to reconnect with colleagues who I have worked with in the past, as well as meeting new colleagues. The whole team is very supportive and fun to work alongside.
It certainly says a lot about the positive culture within the AM&T when you look at the team, their tenure, the strength of their relationships within the industry and their ongoing enthusiasm about all things marine.
Describe a day in your life at AM&T?
Underwriting all different types of risks. On any one day, I can be discussing anything from clothing, soaps, motor vehicle parts, furniture, machinery, and the logistics of getting these items from a to b. Brokers rely on our knowledge and understanding to ensure we can get the right policy and cover for each of the unique situations be it cargo, carriers or other marine-related policies.
What advice would you give a newcomer to the industry?
There is never a dull moment, so many opportunities for growth and the encouragement to continually develop and learn. It is also a great industry to meet lots of people and make lifetime friendships.
What do you enjoy doing on your days off?
With three children, two dogs and four chickens, I enjoy spending time with family (of course this hasn’t been possible of late with lockdowns) I also enjoy reading, going for walks and horse riding. I look forward to spending more time with my brand new grandson who joined the world in September this year. Thankfully, the lockdown is over and I can enjoy some cuddles.
Nominate a charity/cause of your choice and why it is important to you?
It’s Okay, Not To Be Okay (itsokaynottobeokay.com.au), mental health is so important, especially in these challenging times we are currently experiencing.
Quote or saying you live by…
You don’t always need a plan. Sometimes you just need to breathe, trust, let go, and see what happens.