Charlie Hutton, Director of data science and analytics, Domestic & General

Path to power

 

After graduating, I began my career as a motor insurance underwriter, before progressing through two underwriting positions at Domestic and General. After a year as MI manager, I was promoted head of MI, where I was then given responsibility for establishing and heading up its new pricing team. A company restructure gave me a new opportunity as the head of data science and customer analytics. This successfully led to me being made director of data science and analytics in 2018.

 

What has been the highlight of your career in the industry to date?

 

In the past year, I have collaborated with a leading data platform organisation to deliver a data analytics database which utilises train of thought analytics to help us provide actionable insight to our business.

 

If you could give your younger self some advice about how to progress in this industry, what would it be?

 

The pace and dynamism of the data industry are things you need to be prepared for. Also, enjoy the challenges that will come your way, because the feeling of achievement when you have risen up to them is extremely fulfilling.

 

Did 2018 turn out the way you expected? If not, in what ways was it different?

 

2018 turned out better than expected, as we not only laid the foundations for this coming year by gathering new data sources, but we also unlocked even more of the potential of our existing data capabilities. 

 

What do you expect 2019 to be like for the industry?

 

I expect to see the industry further buying into the agile analytics methodology.

 

Talent and skills are always a challenge to find - how are you tackling this in your organisation?

 

As they are in such demand in the industry, as well as competitive recruiting, we nurture talent and skills organically through the self-development of our existing staff.

 

What aspect of data, analytics or their use are you most optimistic about and why?

 

As data and analytics are not just a tool exclusively for use by the financial services industry, some of the most exciting developments can be found in healthcare and medicine, particularly where AI is being used to augment traditional diagnoses or, ideally, to predict illness before it happens.