At SUREWiSE, we think it’s a great idea for you to meet our team.
SUREWiSE is made up of a large team of insurance professionals who all work together to protect our client’s and their assets. Throughout your interactions with our organisation, you probably won’t get to meet everyone so this is just one way we can introduce our team to you.
In this article, let’s get to know Peter Blanco.
Born in Adelaide, South Australia, Peter Blanco is the Managing Director of SUREWiSE and has a wealth of knowledge and experience in insurance and business management. Peter has previously worked for an insurance company in claims management and commercial property underwriting. In 1978, Peter commenced his own insurance broking business which he later sold to his son in 2010.
Peter was approached by Steadfast Group in 2017 to manage a new Steadfast hub following Steadfast’s acquisition and merger of MFP Insurance Brokers, VFP Insurance Brokers and Brecknock Insurance Brokers to form SUREWiSE. Peter has been managing the organisational restructure and alignment process.
Adding to his experience and professional standing in the insurance industry, Peter was also on the South Australian board of the National Insurance Brokers Association (NIBA) for 13 years and was a National Board Member for 8 years. He is a Qualified Practicing Insurance Broker (QPIB), is an ANZIIF Senior Associate CIP and holds the Diploma of Financial Services (Insurance Broking).
Given you are the Managing Director at SUREWiSE, are you involved in client management?
Yes, I am actively involved in the business and manage a growing portfolio of some of our largest corporate clients. I really enjoy the client relationship aspect of my role.
What do you like most about working in the insurance industry?
I enjoy being able to assist clients in their time of need and being able to provide professional advice in relation to protecting our client’s assets. I acknowledge the trust placed in me to help protect people’s businesses and their livelihoods which is achieved through developing great relationships.
What do you like most about working for SUREWiSE?
I enjoy the challenges we face and finding practical solutions. Together with the senior management team, we have improved the business and are always looking for ways to better our client’s experience with SUREWiSE. A positive and supporting environment is important to any business and we have achieved this through continued change and culture development. We’re also part of Steadfast Group which provides our business and team with exceptional opportunities, products and tools we can use in our daily broking lives.
What is the most challenging thing you find working in the insurance industry?
The most challenging aspect of working in the insurance industry is the constant changing of the insurance market cycle. As a business, we need to adapt and educate our clients about the insurance cycles and the effects these may impose on them.
What are your hobbies and interests?
I am a JSL soccer coach for the boys under 14’s at the Metro Stars Soccer Club which I find extremely rewarding. I enjoy developing each team member and seeing them progress in their junior soccer career. I consider myself to be a bit of a handyman so my other hobbies and interests include renovating, home improvements, landscaping and gardening.
Where have you travelled?
I have travelled to London, Paris, Rome, Switzerland and Germany. I have also travelled to the USA having visited Los Angeles, Las Vegas, San Francisco and San Diego as well as Phuket in Thailand and Bali in Indonesia.
If you could have a month-long holiday anywhere in the world, where would you travel to and why?
If I had the opportunity to travel for a whole month, I would travel along the Amalfi Coast in Italy. I would love to experience the great weather, the landscape, the people and the food and wine offered throughout the region.
Do you have any future travel aspirations?
In the near distant future, I hope to travel to Canada and Alaska.
What is your favourite food?
I love Thai food and my favourite Thai dish would have to be authentic pad thai.
What is the name of your favourite restaurant?
My favourite restaurant is Amalfi Restaurant, a popular Italian restaurant in Adelaide, South Australia.
What is your favourite movie?
The Jason Bourne series.
Who is your favourite actor or actress?
My favourite actor has to be Matt Damon because he’s down to earth and a good natural actor.
What is your favourite type of book to read?
I mainly enjoy reading motivational books.
What motivates you?
I am motivated by having the opportunity to help clients and colleagues to overcome problems and to help resolve issues in their personal and professional lives.
What’s most important to you?
My family, health, friends and general well being are what’s most important to me.
What makes you happy?
I am happy when I’m with family and friends and when we’re winning soccer!
What is your favourite sport?
My favourite sport is soccer. Locally, I support Adelaide United and in the Premier League, I support Chelsea. I also support Serie A Juventus in Italy.
Do you follow the AFL and if so, which team do you support?
Yes, I follow the AFL and support Carlton.
This article provides a little more insight into Peter Blanco. To speak directly with Peter, please call him on 08 8413 6306 or 0487 888 071 or email peterb@steadfastbrecknock.com.au. A reminder that you can also schedule a Skype video call with Peter if that’s more convenient for you.
