Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
References
Additional Interests and Experience
Timeline
Generic

Sophie Kerr

Whanganui,New Zealand

Summary

As a commercially minded leader with over 10 years of experience in the insurance and financial services sector, I’ve focused on building strong relationships, driving operational improvements, and leading through change. My background blends strategic management with financial and regulatory expertise, and I deliver results through collaboration and a practical, people-first approach. I believe in leading with empathy and transparency, creating environments where teams feel fully supported. I bring a fresh perspective grounded in financial discipline, systems thinking, and a commitment to long-term, sustainable service delivery.

Overview

13
13
years of professional experience

Work History

Commercial Financial Advisor

Oceania Insurance Brokers
Whanganui (hybrid)
04.2023 - Current
  • Lead client retention and business development in a high-trust advisory role for a newly established brokerage.
  • Successfully led change initiatives in response to evolving and complex industry regulations, ensuring ongoing compliance, and team confidence.
  • Delivering tailored financial and insurance advice to commercial businesses, ensuring alignment with risk profiles and strategic goals.
  • Implement operational systems to improve service delivery, reduce inefficiencies, and support sustainable growth.
  • Build long-term partnerships with stakeholders through proactive relationship management, strategic planning, and high service standards.

Commercial Management

PIC Insurance
Auckland/Whanganui (hybrid)
08.2014 - 04.2023
  • Management of commercial clients, providing strategic financial advice and solutions tailored to their business needs ensuring long-term stability and growth.
  • Led organisational change initiatives in response to regulatory shift, embedding compliance into daily operations while maintaining service quality.
  • Designed and implemented financial and operational systems that improved efficiency, enhanced reporting accuracy, and supported data-driven decision making.
  • Collaborated closely with internal teams and external partners to align strategies, deliver tailored solutions, and build strong stakeholder relationships.
  • Developed a culture of transparency and accountability within my teams, fostering continuous improvement and a client-first mindset.

Underwriter

QBE
Auckland
02.2013 - 08.2014
  • managing a diverse portfolio of commercial accounts, directly contributing to a high-performing book of business with retention and profitability outcomes.
  • Reduced loss exposure by applying data-driven risk assessment strategies, improving portfolio performance year-on-year.
  • Collaborated with stakeholders to deliver tailored solutions, resulting in an increase in conversions.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - English & American Literature

University of Canterbury
Christchurch, NZ
11-2023

NCEA Level 3 -

St Margarets College
Christchurch, NZ
01.2018

Post-Graduate Certificate - Health Service Management

University of Auckland
Auckland, NZ

Skills

  • Financial analysis
  • Risk assessment
  • Regulatory compliance
  • Investment strategy
  • Business development
  • Strategic planning
  • Change management

References

Available on request

Additional Interests and Experience

Volunteer, Uganda (Jinja Orphanage)

  • Delivered training in sustainable agriculture, improving food security, and local economic participation.
  • Development and implementation of a simple business model to support long-term financial sustainability for the orphanage, including local market engagement, and income-generating activities.
  • Teaching English to children aged 5–14 enhancing their communication and literacy skills.

Volunteer, Various Roles City Mission 

  • Assisting in organising and distributing food and essential supplies to individuals and families in need.
  • Contributing to fundraising efforts by assisting with events, campaigns, and donation drives, particularly around Christmas
  • Partaking and assisting in workshops to upskill and empower individuals living below the poverty line.

Timeline

Commercial Financial Advisor

Oceania Insurance Brokers
04.2023 - Current

Commercial Management

PIC Insurance
08.2014 - 04.2023

Underwriter

QBE
02.2013 - 08.2014

Bachelor of Arts - English & American Literature

University of Canterbury

NCEA Level 3 -

St Margarets College

Post-Graduate Certificate - Health Service Management

University of Auckland
Sophie Kerr