Darius Zuil

Biography

Let’s get a little candid for a moment. Tell us something that surprised you or that you least expected after you graduated from the GTP.

Once I graduated, I was surprised to become quickly immersed n a role as a Senior Analyst. I was not expecting this to happen so fast, but the GTP programme taught me so much, increasing my knowledge of the industry and providing me with the technical skills to prepare me for entering the industry confidently. 

How have you changed if you compare yourself now to when you first entered the GTP programme?

I can say that my overall knowledge of financial services and regulation has tremendously increased. Prior to joining the GTP,  I had only had a basic understanding of the industry. Seeing both ‘sides of the coin’ (i.e., the regulatory and industry perspectives) gave me a better understanding of how and why the Authority operates in certain ways. In addition, the GTP helped me better communicate and network with other industry professionals. I have not always been very socially interactive, so I knew this was an area in which I needed to improve. Thanks to the GTP,  I can now confidentially say that I no longer have issues in this area!

What was the most valuable guidance you have received from a manager or colleague during the programme, and how has it helped you?

The best advice I received was always to be prepared to ask questions because no one knows everything. The GTP programme aims to enhance personal and professional growth through learning and development. Often, in the past, I had tried to find a solution to a problem before asking the right questions, but the GTP helped me learn the importance of strategically asking the right questions to save time and help create the best solution. 

What project or accomplishment during the programme are you proud of and why? 

While in the Corporate Authorisations Department, I was selected to become one of the first people to test out a new submission system. Some of the suggestions and edits I  proposed were implemented into the final design of the platform. Knowing that my input influenced what is now being used industry-wide gave me a great sense of accomplishment because I know now that I added value and provided valuable guidance on implementing this system.

What aspects of your secondment prepared you for success in your current role?

The GTP programme helped me be successful by placing me on a secondment with a major insurance company. Seeing first-hand how the industry collaborates, provides information and corresponds with the Authority on regulatory requirements gave me a much better understanding of what to look out for when I took the position of Senior Analyst on the Intermediaries team. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 the secondment was cut short as we all had to try and adjust to our ‘new normal’ at the time.

What courses or designations earned during the GTP best prepared you for success in your current role?

The designation I earned from the Reinsurance Association of America while in the GTP was tremendously beneficial as I had to complete case studies and assignments overseas (mainly in New York). Before this, I had only a minimal understanding of how insurance brokers interacted with companies on various transactions. However, through the course, I learned so much more about the insurance industry and its relevance to my role at the BMA. Other useful training courses included one that helped me become more forward-thinking and a certification from the University of Nicosia on Blockchain, Law Regulation and Policy.

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