15 April 2015 Insurance

60 seconds with Karin Clemens

Ratings analytics firm Litmus Analysis recently appointed Karin Clemens, formerly the head of S&P’s European insurance rating practice, to spearhead its development in the German speaking markets. Intelligent Insurer speaks to Clemens about turning challenges into opportunities, appreciating the industry and Africa.

Why is this move right for you at this stage in your career?

Litmus is a dynamic and growing business with a very clear focus on the insurance industry and an entrepreneurial and highly experienced team that genuinely cares to make a positive difference for its clients. I am very excited to contribute and build on these strengths to accelerate our growth.

What will you bring to the role?

My nearly 20 years with Standard & Poor’s has given me in-depth insights into the global insurance industry and its dynamics. This experience will help to develop the Litmus brand in the German speaking markets and with large international clients.

What are your initial objectives in the new role?

The key focus will be how we can be most effective for existing and potential new clients. Initially this will require listening carefully to our customers and taking the time to fully understand their needs.

What will be your biggest challenge in the new role?

The insurance industry is facing rapidly changing market conditions. The challenge for us is to stay ahead of market developments and constantly think about how to best support our customers to turn this change into an opportunity.

Why did you choose to work in this industry initially?

I originally chose a career in accountancy. Some of the clients I worked with were insurers. I find the industry’s role for our society and economy fascinating. Many of our activities and many businesses wouldn’t be possible without insurers and reinsurers offering adequate coverage. Unfortunately the broader public does not always appreciate enough this aspect.

If you had chosen a different profession/career path, what would it have been?

I would have pursued a job connected to art or teaching.

What are you doing when you are not at work?

I enjoy spending time with my husband and friends and I do a fair bit of painting.

What is your secret vice?

I love food and a good glass of wine.

Tell us an interesting fact about yourself.

I travelled several times to Africa. One day I would like to live a couple of years there.

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