Coffee Break with... David Foster Account Executive – New Business, Christie Insurance

When did you join Christie Insurance?

August 2024

Where were you when you accepted your role at Christie Insurance?

At home

What was your first job?

At Christie Insurance, my first job was a Sales Executive. Years back, my very first job was a paperboy.

In a couple of sentences, can you tell us a bit about your job at Christie Insurance?

I deal with sales for the hotel, pub, restaurant sectors. I liaise with customers, colleagues within Christie & Co, Christie Finance to build relationships, which grow our pipeline. I have recently also taken on the role of New Business Team Manager.

What’s your favourite thing about Christie Insurance?

The people, I thought it would be difficult to leave my last role, but I’ve made a lot of new friends at Christie Insurance, which has made the transition easier.

What’s a favourite project that you’ve worked on at Christie Insurance so far?

Assisting with developing our new business spreadsheet, it has become an integral part of our day-to-day work.

What’s been the biggest challenge of your career so far?

Many years ago, I thought I would never be able to be a Sales Executive, but one day I thought, “You know what, I can do better than others,” I gave it a shot, never looked back. When I was young, I never dreamt I would be able to do the job I now do.

What’s been a highlight of your career so far?

Moving over to Christie Insurance has expanded my knowledge, and pushed me well out of my comfort zone. This is something I am now reaping the rewards for.

How has the industry changed since you started at Christie Insurance?

I can’t say, as I haven’t been here long enough.

Who in your industry do you feel most inspired by?

I have to say Walter Murray, if I don’t, it could get ugly.

Tell us a bit about your life outside work – what are your hobbies?

Other than looking after my grown-up children, I love Aston Villa F.C., and own a  season ticket. I also try to get to some of the away European matches with my son. I enjoy travelling and I’m back into doing family research.

What’s your hometown? Where do you live now?

Born in Rothwell, oddly, I was born at home, in the same street as my dad. Now I live in Kettering.

Where’s the best place you’ve been on holiday?

Gold Coast, Australia. I have family out there, and it’s always great to visit.

What’s your biggest pet peeve?

Aggressiveness, people preaching at you about what they think is right, migraines.

If you could live and work in any city, where would you go?

Tallebudgera, a suburb in the City of Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia.

What would be your desert island meal?

Bangers and mash.

What’s your favourite film?

Whatever my wife puts on.

What is one thing on your bucket list?

A tour around the whole of Australia, including going on the train from Perth to Sydney. 

What is your biggest fear?

Air crashes, I hate take-offs.

What news source do you read every day?

BBC website, Sky News.

What’s your social media platform of choice?

Facebook.

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