{"data":{"platform":{"allPosts":[{"id":"66d7f6ae683d3dbfeb8c62f2","name":"Chris Kelly Introduction Interview","path":"/posts/chris-kelly-introduction-interview","slug":"chris-kelly-introduction-interview","__typename":"Platform_Post","_schema":{"label":"Post","pluralLabel":"Posts"},"intro":{"plain":"Chris Kelly, CEO and Co-Founder of Marinex Underwriting talks about his journey to launching a startup agency, and what makes Marinex Underwriting tick. \n","text":"Chris Kelly, CEO and Co-Founder of Marinex Underwriting talks about his journey to launching a startup agency, and what makes Marinex Underwriting tick. "},"content":{"text":"**Tell us a little about your journey to get to where you are today, launching an Underwriting agency. Have you always been in insurance?**\n\nI started my insurance career working for MMI Insurance where I refined my skills in risk assessment and financial analysis working my way through the company with various roles throughout Workers Compensation and the General insurance space. This experience provided me with a solid grounding in understanding the intricacies of financial products and the importance of mitigating risks.\n\nAfter several years and gaining the experience from leaders within companies such as ACE Insurance, CGU, Allianz and AM&T, I transitioned into roles that allowed me to develop a deep understanding of business operations, analytical understanding and planning. Being involved and having the opportunity to learn from such highly respected leaders has taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, innovation, and the importance of customer-centric solutions.\n\n**What made you decide it was time to launch your own brand? What have you set out to deliver to the market?**\n\nThe decision to launch the Marinex brand was driven by a combination of personal ambition and market opportunity. After years of working within established companies, I realised that I had a unique vision and an approach that could benefit the industry. I wanted to create a brand that not only reflected my own personal values, but also addressed the gaps I had observed within the market.\n\nOne of the key factors that motivated me was the desire to build a team that was the perfect blend of experience, expertise and innovation. The Marinex team has three co-founders, all seasoned professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge from various sectors. Combined with our Rhodian support team who bring new perspectives and frameworks, this dynamic mix allows us to approach challenges creatively, and deliver solutions that are both effective and forward-thinking.\n\nMarinex aims to provide unparalleled expertise in our field, leveraging our extensive experience to offer insights and solutions that are both dependable and innovative. Most importantly, we are committed to putting our clients at the centre of everything we do. We understand that each client has unique needs and challenges, and we strive to offer personalised solutions that deliver real value. Our goal is to build long-term relationships based on trust, transparency, and exceptional service.\n\n**Marine is a complex market, where do you see Marinex sitting within the landscape?** \n\nMarine insurance is certainly a complex and dynamic market, characterised by its unique risks and challenges. At Marinex, we see ourselves as a forward-thinking player within this landscape, committed to providing specialised solutions that cater to the diverse needs of our clients.\n\nOur appetite is focused on delivering comprehensive coverage across a broad spectrum of marine risks. We aim to serve a wide range of clients, from small-scale operators to large  corporations, ensuring that each receives the tailored protection they need. Our expertise spans various segments, including Cargo, Carriers, Hull and Marine Liability, allowing us to offer robust and flexible policies that address the specific requirements of each sector.\n\nWe are excited about the opportunities ahead and are dedicated to making a positive impact in the market.\n\n**And product wise.. you are launching with Cargo, Carriers and Commercial Hull. How do you see this developing?** \n\nWe are excited to launch Marinex with a strong focus on three core products: Cargo, Carriers, and Hull insurance. These foundational offerings are designed to address the critical needs of our clients in the marine industry, providing comprehensive coverage and peace of mind.\n\nOur initial focus is on delivering excellence across these first core products. We have invested significant resources into developing robust policies that offer extensive protection and flexibility. Our team of experts is dedicated to ensuring that each product meets the highest standards of quality and reliability. We understand the complexities and unique risks associated with marine operations, and our goal is to provide solutions that are both effective and tailored to our clients’ specific needs.\n\nLooking ahead, we see significant opportunities for growth and expansion. Our intention is to build on the success of our initial offerings by continuously enhancing and diversifying our product portfolio. We plan to introduce our Marine Liability products following the successful launch to market and will continue with our growth and expansion into other new product offerings. Our commitment to growth is matched by our dedication to maintaining the highest levels of service and client satisfaction. We believe that delivering excellence is not just about the products we offer, but also about the relationships we build with our clients. \n\n**How is Marinex going to deliver a different/better experience for brokers?** \n\nAt Marinex, we are committed to delivering a superior experience for brokers by focusing on key differentiators that set us apart in the market. \n\n1. Personalised Service and Support: We understand that brokers are looking for partners who can offer tailored solutions and responsive service. At Marinex, we prioritise building strong relationships with our brokers, providing them with dedicated support and personalised attention. Our team is always available to assist with any queries, offer expert advice, and ensure a smooth and efficient process from start to finish.\n\n2. Innovative and Flexible Solutions: The marine insurance market is constantly evolving, and we are committed to staying ahead of the curve. Marinex offers innovative and flexible insurance solutions that are designed to meet the unique needs of our clients. Our products are customisable, allowing brokers to provide their clients with coverage that is precisely tailored to their specific requirements.\n\n3. Expertise and Knowledge: Our team brings a wealth of experience and deep industry knowledge to the table. We understand the complexities of the marine market and are well-equipped to navigate its challenges. Brokers can rely on us for accurate risk assessments, insightful guidance, and comprehensive coverage options that address the full spectrum of marine risks.\n\n4. Independent Agency Advantage: As an independent agency, Marinex is not tied to any single insurer. This independence allows us to offer unbiased advice and access to a wide range of insurance products from multiple carriers. Brokers can trust that we are working in their best interests, providing them with the most competitive and suitable options available in the market.\n\n5. Commitment to Excellence: We are dedicated to delivering excellence in everything we do. From our product offerings to our customer service, we strive to exceed expectations and set new standards in the industry. Our commitment to quality and continuous improvement ensures that brokers and their clients receive the best possible experience.\nMarinex is poised to deliver a different and better experience for brokers by offering personalised service, innovative solutions, deep expertise, the advantages of being an independent agency, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. We look forward to building strong partnerships with brokers and helping them succeed in the competitive marine insurance market.\n\n\n**What are some of the positive aspects you are looking forward to running your own agency?**  \n\nI think building the Marinex business will be a transformative experience. It will offer both unique opportunities as well as plenty of challenges compared to working within a corporate environment. Some of the positive differences I see are:\n\n1.\tAutonomy and Flexibility: One of the most significant advantages of running our own agency is the autonomy it provides. We will have the freedom to make strategic decisions quickly and implement innovative ideas without the constraints often found in larger corporate structures. This flexibility allows us to be more agile and responsive to market changes and client needs.\n\n2.\tPersonal Connection: As an independent agency, we can build closer, more personal relationships with our clients and partners. This direct interaction fosters trust and allows us to tailor our services more precisely to meet their specific requirements. \n\n3.\tEntrepreneurial Spirit: Leading Marinex has reignited my entrepreneurial spirit. The ability to shape the company’s vision, culture, and growth trajectory is both exciting and fulfilling. We have created a dynamic environment where creativity and innovation are encouraged and celebrated. \n\n"},"title":null,"openGraph":{"description":{"plain":"Chris Kelly, CEO and Co-Founder of Marinex Underwriting talks about his journey to launching a startup agency, and what makes Marinex Underwriting tick. \n"},"image":{"url":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/v1725533494/rhodian/image-asset/marinex-chris-kelly-video_image__Chris_Kelly_copy_lr1hsw.jpg","url2x":null,"thumbnails":{"card":{"url":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/c_limit,w_480/v1725533494/rhodian/image-asset/marinex-chris-kelly-video_image__Chris_Kelly_copy_lr1hsw.jpg","url2x":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/c_limit,w_960/v1725533494/rhodian/image-asset/marinex-chris-kelly-video_image__Chris_Kelly_copy_lr1hsw.jpg"},"bubble":{"url":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/c_limit,w_64/v1725533494/rhodian/image-asset/marinex-chris-kelly-video_image__Chris_Kelly_copy_lr1hsw.jpg","url2x":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/c_limit,w_128/v1725533494/rhodian/image-asset/marinex-chris-kelly-video_image__Chris_Kelly_copy_lr1hsw.jpg"}}}},"type":null,"published":"2024-10-24T21:31:41.66","authors":[{"openGraph":{"image":{"url":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/v1675399443/rhodian/person/tessa-chirnside_photo__Tessa_Chirnside-LoRezLinkedinWideShot_copy_uaf1be.webp.webp","url2x":null}},"_schema":{"label":"Person","pluralLabel":"People"},"id":"65d566ccf7d2d452331bf076","name":"Tessa Chirnside","slug":"tessa-chirnside","path":"/people/tessa-chirnside","organisation":{"id":"65d566c0f7d2d452331beffe","name":"Rhodian"},"linkedin":"https://www.linkedin.com/in/tessa-chirnside/ ","photo":{"id":"image_rhodian/person/tessa-chirnside_photo__Tessa_Chirnside-LoRezLinkedinWideShot_copy_uaf1be.webp","url":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/v1675399443/rhodian/person/tessa-chirnside_photo__Tessa_Chirnside-LoRezLinkedinWideShot_copy_uaf1be.webp.webp","url2x":null,"type":"image/webp"}}]},{"id":"66d7f7b1683d3dbfeb8c62fb","name":"Ainsley Smith Introduction Interview","path":"/posts/ainsley-smith-introduction-interview","slug":"ainsley-smith-introduction-interview","__typename":"Platform_Post","_schema":{"label":"Post","pluralLabel":"Posts"},"intro":{"plain":"As CUO and Co-Founder of Marinex, Ainsley brings a unique perspective to the business. Here she shares a little about where she sees the marine industry moving, within the context of current global influences. \n","text":"As CUO and Co-Founder of Marinex, Ainsley brings a unique perspective to the business. Here she shares a little about where she sees the marine industry moving, within the context of current global influences. "},"content":{"text":"**Tell us a little about your journey to get to where you are today, launching an Underwriting agency. Have you always been in insurance?**\n\nMy entrance into the insurance industry began in 2010 with Vero Marine, followed by a decade of growth and development at AM&T/GT Marine. However, my professional roots run deeper, grounded in over 15 years of managing my own family business in electrical contracting. This experience was pivotal, providing me with hands-on expertise in leading a team of 25, mastering small business operations, and delivering exceptional customer service.\nTransitioning into marine insurance, I found that my background in small business management offered a unique perspective. It equipped me with the tools to approach marine underwriting with a keen understanding of the needs of both brokers and clients. Every decision I make is influenced by a commitment to putting these relationships first, ensuring that their interests are always at the forefront.\n\nOver the past 10 years, I've dedicated myself to cultivating strong, lasting relationships while expanding both my knowledge and the marine book under my care. This journey has been one of continuous learning and growth, shaping me into a more insightful and effective underwriter. Today, as I help lead our own underwriting agency, I draw upon this extensive experience. The blend of small business acumen and deep industry knowledge has uniquely positioned me to navigate the complexities of marine insurance, always with an eye toward innovation and client-focused solutions.\n\n**What are some of the underwriting challenges Marinex has considered launching a new agency?**\n\nMarinex has considered several underwriting challenges while launching a new agency. Some of the key challenges include:\n•\tThe past few years we have witnessed a recovery in global trade, both in volume and value, following the significant disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, global trade patterns continue to shift, influenced by geopolitical unrest, such as the ongoing Ukraine conflict and the Red Sea tensions involving Houthi militants with incidents appearing to be on the rise. Even with taking such precautions around re-routing vessels to avoid such conflicts, this still encompasses other risks with longer journey times and exposure to potential adverse weather conditions.\n\n•\tThe increasing prevalence of fires on containerships and car carriers also presents a growing concern. The trend towards larger container vessels has heightened the risk of such incidents, particularly as these ships are more likely to carry cargo that may ignite. A notable example is the increasing transport of Li-ion batteries and electric vehicles, which require special handling. Accurate cargo declaration is becoming more crucial than ever, ensuring that goods are correctly positioned on vessels to mitigate these risks.\n\n•\tIn the aftermath of COVID-19, global insurance claims have largely returned to more typical levels. Yet, the marine insurance industry faces several emerging challenges, particularly in the hull insurance sector. With the underwriting experience, adaptability and innovation built into our business practices we will provide confidence and protection needed to operate in the dynamic and often unpredictable maritime environment. \n\n**How do you see market inflation affecting the current Marine environment?** \n\nInflation remains a critical factor, affecting the cost and availability of goods, parts and shipbuilding materials. This, in turn, impacts the overall cost of maintaining and insuring fleets. Additionally, the push towards alternative fuels and emission reduction technologies in ship propulsion is reshaping the industry. As fleets become more valuable due to these technological advancements, the level of risk that needs to be covered increases. The rapid implementation of these technologies, driven by decarbonisation and greenhouse gas emission reduction goals, introduces new risks. These include challenges with fuel blends for current engines and the adoption of entirely new propulsion methods. To keep pace, hull policy wordings will need to evolve, and underwriters must develop the expertise required to accurately assess these emerging risks.\n\nAs the marine insurance industry continues to navigate these challenges, adaptability and expertise will be key to managing the evolving landscape of global trade and shipping.\n\n**What do you believe are some of the key underwriting deliverables that will ensure Marinex's success?** \n\nThe role of marine insurance agencies will remain critical in ensuring that businesses can effectively manage their risks and continue to thrive in our industry. By aligning key individuals and the strengths they bring to the business will ensure focus remains strong in areas of expertise. This is something we have implemented at Marinex and allows us to pay particular attention to some key areas to accelerate growth. \n•\tAdapting to Market Changes: The marine insurance landscape is continually evolving due to technological advancements, changing trade patterns, and emerging risks like cyber threats. Marinex is focused on being at the forefront of these changes, offering innovative solutions that meet the modern needs of businesses.\n\n•\tAccess to Global Markets: Marinex has relationships with a wide range of insurers, including those based internationally. This access will allow us to offer our clients competitive rates and coverage options that might not be available directly.\n\n•\tNegotiation Expertise: We will use our industry knowledge and relationships to negotiate favourable terms and premiums on behalf of our clients. This is particularly important in a market with fluctuating risks and premiums.\n\n•\tCustomised Risk Solutions: Marinex is able to assess the unique risks faced by each client and offer tailored insurance products that address those risks.  \n\n•\tDiverse Risks: The marine environment is fraught with various risks, including natural disasters (like cyclones and storms), piracy, mechanical failures, and cargo damage. Marinex has the expertise to assess these risks accurately and tailor insurance solutions to meet specific needs.\n\n•\tSpecialised Knowledge: Understanding the nuances of different types of vessels, cargo, routes, and regulatory requirements requires specialised knowledge. At Marinex we possess the technical expertise needed to navigate these complexities and provide appropriate coverage.\n\n\n"},"title":null,"openGraph":{"description":{"plain":"As CUO and Co-Founder of Marinex, Ainsley brings a unique perspective to the business. Here she shares a little about where she sees the marine industry moving, within the context of current global influences. \n"},"image":{"url":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/v1725533978/rhodian/image-asset/ainsley-smith-thumb_image__Ainsley_Smith_Thumb_v1voeq.webp","url2x":null,"thumbnails":{"card":{"url":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/c_limit,w_480/v1725533978/rhodian/image-asset/ainsley-smith-thumb_image__Ainsley_Smith_Thumb_v1voeq.webp","url2x":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/c_limit,w_960/v1725533978/rhodian/image-asset/ainsley-smith-thumb_image__Ainsley_Smith_Thumb_v1voeq.webp"},"bubble":{"url":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/c_limit,w_64/v1725533978/rhodian/image-asset/ainsley-smith-thumb_image__Ainsley_Smith_Thumb_v1voeq.webp","url2x":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/c_limit,w_128/v1725533978/rhodian/image-asset/ainsley-smith-thumb_image__Ainsley_Smith_Thumb_v1voeq.webp"}}}},"type":{"id":"65d566d1f7d2d452331bf0b2","name":"Interview","slug":"interview","__typename":"Platform_PostType"},"published":"2024-09-05T00:00:00.00","authors":[{"openGraph":{"image":{"url":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/v1675399443/rhodian/person/tessa-chirnside_photo__Tessa_Chirnside-LoRezLinkedinWideShot_copy_uaf1be.webp.webp","url2x":null}},"_schema":{"label":"Person","pluralLabel":"People"},"id":"65d566ccf7d2d452331bf076","name":"Tessa Chirnside","slug":"tessa-chirnside","path":"/people/tessa-chirnside","organisation":{"id":"65d566c0f7d2d452331beffe","name":"Rhodian"},"linkedin":"https://www.linkedin.com/in/tessa-chirnside/ ","photo":{"id":"image_rhodian/person/tessa-chirnside_photo__Tessa_Chirnside-LoRezLinkedinWideShot_copy_uaf1be.webp","url":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/v1675399443/rhodian/person/tessa-chirnside_photo__Tessa_Chirnside-LoRezLinkedinWideShot_copy_uaf1be.webp.webp","url2x":null,"type":"image/webp"}}]},{"id":"66e9001f0c01e329fe7ca7b2","name":"Janelle Karnib Introduction Interview","path":"/posts/janelle-karnib-introduction-interview","slug":"janelle-karnib-introduction-interview","__typename":"Platform_Post","_schema":{"label":"Post","pluralLabel":"Posts"},"intro":{"plain":"Janelle Karnib, National Relationship Manager and Co-Founder of Marinex Underwriting, talking about making the jump from corporate to startup, and her passion for building a business that answers the needs of Australian brokers. \n","text":"Janelle Karnib, National Relationship Manager and Co-Founder of Marinex Underwriting, talking about making the jump from corporate to startup, and her passion for building a business that answers the needs of Australian brokers. "},"content":{"text":"**Tell us a little about your journey to get to where you are today, launching an Underwriting agency.**\n\nThroughout my 24-year career, I’ve been deeply involved in the marine insurance industry, working with both a global insurer and a specialized Australian Underwriting Agency. My journey began with a strong foundation in underwriting and relationship management where I honed my skills in navigating the complex and ever-evolving marine insurance landscape. Over the years, I’ve built a deep understanding of the unique needs and challenges within this sector, allowing me to deliver tailored solutions to brokers and their customers. \n\nMy experience has not only shaped my technical expertise but also fueled my passion for the marine industry. This passion, coupled with a desire to innovate and create more customer-centric offerings led me to take the leap and launch my own underwriting agency. My goal is to leverage the insights and relationships I’ve cultivated over the years to provide a specialized, flexible and responsive service that truly meets the needs of the marine insurance brokers in Australia. \n \n**What made you decide it was time to launch your own brand? What gave you confidence to make the jump?**\n\nThe decision to launch my own brand was the culmination of years of experience, a deep understanding of the market, and a clear vision of what I wanted to achieve in the marine insurance space. Over my career, I observed gaps in the market where brokers and their customers’ needs were not fully met, particularly when it came to specialized, personalized service. I knew that with my expertise, industry relationships, and passion for the marine sector, I could create a brand that would address these needs more effectively.  \n\nWhat gave me the confidence to make the jump was the support and trust I’ve built with brokers, their customers, colleagues, and industry partners over the years. Their encouragement and belief in my capabilities reinforced my decision. Additionally, the opportunity to shape a business that reflects my values and vision was simply too compelling to pass up. \n \n**You have worked in the industry a long time and know the Australian broker market very well. What do you think is required of a new marine agency, and how will Marinex be delivering this?**\n\nHaving worked in the industry for over two decades and having developed a deep understanding of the Australian broker market, I believe that a successful new marine agency must prioritize agility, specialization, and customer-centricity. The marine insurance sector is highly dynamic, with risks and requirements that can vary significantly across different customers and regions. Brokers need an agency that can respond quickly to these changing needs with tailored solutions and expert advice. \n\nMarinex is designed to deliver on these fronts. We are committed to providing a level of specialization that truly understands the nuances of marine risks, supported by our decades of industry experience.  \nIn essence, Marinex is about combining deep industry knowledge with innovative approaches to create an agency that meets the modern demands of brokers and their customers. We are here to set a new standard in marine insurance, where the brokers’ needs are at the forefront of everything we do. \n \n**Growing a start-up agency from scratch is a big challenge. How do you intend to tackle this and how are you feeling about it?**\n\nGrowing a startup agency from scratch is indeed a significant challenge, but its one that I’m approaching with a mix of excitement, determination, and careful planning. My strategy for tackling this challenge revolves around leveraging the deep industry knowledge and relationships I’ve built over the years. From day one, I’m focused on building a strong foundation, starting with a clear vision for Marinex and a commitment to delivering exceptional service to our broker partners and their customers.  \n\nOne of the key factors in our approach is staying agile and adaptable. As a startup, we have the advantage of being able to move quickly and innovate without the constraints that larger, more established companies often face. This agility will allow us to respond to market demands and client needs more effectively, giving us an edge in a competitive environment. \n\nI’m also placing a strong emphasis on collaboration and building a team that shares the same passion and dedication to the marine sector as I do. I will be surrounding myself with experienced professionals who are equally committed to the success of Marinex and I’m confident we can overcome the challenges that come our way.  \n\nAs for how I’m feeling about it, I’m incredibly optimistic. Starting Marinex is the culmination of years of experience and a long-held vision, and I believe the timing is right. While there will undoubtedly be obstacles, I’m motivated by the opportunity to create something new and impactful in the industry. The challenge excites me, and I’m fully committed to making Marinex a success.  \n\n**One of the hardest things to orchestrate in a small business is culture. As a key leader with Marinex, how will you be helping to develop a culture of success. What does this look like?**\n\nAs a key leader, I’m deeply committed to fostering a culture of success, one that not only motivates our team but also aligns with the values and vision we’ve set for the agency. My approach to developing this culture starts with clear communication and transparency. Creating an environment where everyone understands our goals, feels empowered to contribute, and knows their input is valued is essential. Open dialogue and regular feedback will ensure that every team member feels connected to our mission and confident in their role.  Collaboration will be another crucial element of our culture. At Marinex, success will be a team effort, and I want to build a workplace where we support each other, share knowledge, and work together to overcome challenges.  \n\nUltimately, a culture of success at Marinex looks like a team that is passionate, engaged, aligned with our shared vision. It’s about creating a workplace where people are excited to come to work, feel valued and inspired, and are driven to achieve excellence together. Prioritizing these values from the outset will help us build a culture that not only supports our business goals but also creates a positive, thriving environment for everyone involved. \n \n**What are you most looking forward to over the coming year, as Marinex starts to grow and take its position in the marketplace? **\n\nAs Marinex begins to grow and establish itself in the marketplace, I’m most looking forward to seeing our vision come to life. The opportunity to build a brand that truly reflects our commitment to the marine insurance industry and our brokers and customers is incredibly exciting. I’m eager to enhance existing relationships with brokers and their customers, offering them tailored solutions that set a new standard in marine insurance.  \n\nI’m also excited about the chance to innovate and adapt as we navigate the challenges and opportunities that come with being a new player in the market. Watching our team collaborate, bring fresh ideas to the table, and grow together will be incredibly rewarding. It’s the start of a new journey, and I’m thrilled to be part of it and see how Marinex will evolve and make its mark in the industry. \n\n\n\n"},"title":null,"openGraph":{"description":{"plain":"Janelle Karnib, National Relationship Manager and Co-Founder of Marinex Underwriting, talking about making the jump from corporate to startup, and her passion for building a business that answers the needs of Australian brokers. \n"},"image":{"url":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/v1727150279/rhodian/image-asset/janelle-karnib-video-image_image__Janelle_Video_Thumb_hzb5pv.webp","url2x":null,"thumbnails":{"card":{"url":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/c_limit,w_480/v1727150279/rhodian/image-asset/janelle-karnib-video-image_image__Janelle_Video_Thumb_hzb5pv.webp","url2x":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/c_limit,w_960/v1727150279/rhodian/image-asset/janelle-karnib-video-image_image__Janelle_Video_Thumb_hzb5pv.webp"},"bubble":{"url":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/c_limit,w_64/v1727150279/rhodian/image-asset/janelle-karnib-video-image_image__Janelle_Video_Thumb_hzb5pv.webp","url2x":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/c_limit,w_128/v1727150279/rhodian/image-asset/janelle-karnib-video-image_image__Janelle_Video_Thumb_hzb5pv.webp"}}}},"type":{"id":"65d566d1f7d2d452331bf0b2","name":"Interview","slug":"interview","__typename":"Platform_PostType"},"published":"2024-09-17T00:00:00.00","authors":[{"openGraph":{"image":{"url":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/v1675399443/rhodian/person/tessa-chirnside_photo__Tessa_Chirnside-LoRezLinkedinWideShot_copy_uaf1be.webp.webp","url2x":null}},"_schema":{"label":"Person","pluralLabel":"People"},"id":"65d566ccf7d2d452331bf076","name":"Tessa Chirnside","slug":"tessa-chirnside","path":"/people/tessa-chirnside","organisation":{"id":"65d566c0f7d2d452331beffe","name":"Rhodian"},"linkedin":"https://www.linkedin.com/in/tessa-chirnside/ ","photo":{"id":"image_rhodian/person/tessa-chirnside_photo__Tessa_Chirnside-LoRezLinkedinWideShot_copy_uaf1be.webp","url":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/v1675399443/rhodian/person/tessa-chirnside_photo__Tessa_Chirnside-LoRezLinkedinWideShot_copy_uaf1be.webp.webp","url2x":null,"type":"image/webp"}}]},{"id":"68b7c1ed233507e83797c2e4","name":"Climate Change vs the Soft Market: A Collision Course in Marine Insurance ","path":"/posts/climate-change-vs-the-soft-market-a-collision-course-in-marine-insurance","slug":"climate-change-vs-the-soft-market-a-collision-course-in-marine-insurance","__typename":"Platform_Post","_schema":{"label":"Post","pluralLabel":"Posts"},"intro":{"plain":"Australia’s marine insurance landscape is shifting rapidly and not without its challenges. On one side, businesses are facing growing climate related risks. On the other insurers are under pressure to keep premiums affordable in an increasingly competitive market. So how do we bridge the gap? The answer lies in resilience, innovation, and collaboration.\n","text":"Australia’s marine insurance landscape is shifting rapidly and not without its challenges. On one side, businesses are facing growing climate related risks. On the other insurers are under pressure to keep premiums affordable in an increasingly competitive market. So how do we bridge the gap? The answer lies in resilience, innovation, and collaboration."},"content":{"text":"Climate change is no longer a future threat it’s already reshaping the marine sector. Cyclones, like those that have battered Queensland and Western Australia in recent years are becoming more frequent, more intense and harder to predict. The impacts are wide ranging: hull damage to vessels, port disruptions and cargo losses in transit. Meanwhile prolonged rain events and flash flooding are damaging infrastructure, cutting off transport routes and increasing claims across the board.\n\nIn Australia this means longer catastrophe (CAT) seasons with global warming extending the window for extreme weather. For marine insurers this translates to heightened exposure across key policy areas:\n\nHull Insurance: Storm surges and cyclones are putting more pressure on vessel structures increasing the risk of groundings, sinking, and major damage.\nCargo Insurance: Goods in transit are more vulnerable to delays and damage. Flooding can spoil perishables while unpredictable weather disrupts loading and unloading creating costly ripple effects across supply chains.\nLiability & P&I: Environmental liabilities are rising, with insurers facing stricter regulations and higher cleanup costs following extreme weather events.\n\n**The Soft Market: A Temporary Relief or a False Sense of Security?**\n\nIn 2025, Australia’s insurance market is experiencing softening conditions. Increased competition driven by new entrants and abundant capacity has pushed premiums down across many lines, including marine. For businesses this may feel like a welcome break amid rising costs and economic pressures but this stability may be misleading.\n\nIf climate related claims continue to rise, the current pricing model could become unsustainable. A series of major events like supercell storms, floods, or cyclones hitting the same regions repeatedly or becoming widespread into new areas could force insurers to pull back capacity. The result? Sharp premium hikes, reduced coverage, and stricter exclusions.\n\n**We could see:**\n\nHull policies with higher deductibles\n\nCargo insurance excluding certain weather perils\n\nP&I cover becoming prohibitively expensive\n\n**Navigating the Collision: Building a More Resilient Future**\n\nThe good news? There are proactive steps businesses can take to stay ahead of the curve and keep marine insurance viable:\n\nInvest in early warning systems and climate resilient infrastructure to reduce exposure and lower claim frequency in areas of impact.\nUse predictive modelling and climate data to better understand and manage risk.\nDemonstrate strong risk management practices to insurers — this can lead to more favourable pricing and terms.\nBuild strong partnerships with brokers and insurers to tailor coverage, better understand the risk, negotiate smarter, and stay agile in a changing market.\n\n**Let’s Talk**\n\nConnect with the team at Marinex today to explore how tailored solutions can help you manage risk and navigate the marine landscape in an increasingly unpredictable environment.\n\n**W: marinexunderwriting.com.au**\n\n**E: enquiry@marinexuw.com.au**\n\n**P: 1800 574 222**\n\n\n"},"title":null,"openGraph":{"description":{"plain":"Australia’s marine insurance landscape is shifting rapidly and not without its challenges. On one side, businesses are facing growing climate related risks. On the other insurers are under pressure to keep premiums affordable in an increasingly competitive market. So how do we bridge the gap? The answer lies in resilience, innovation, and collaboration.\n"},"image":{"url":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/v1756873456/rhodian/banner/waves_image__iStock-2180697289_fspncb.jpg","url2x":null,"thumbnails":{"card":{"url":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/c_limit,w_480/v1756873456/rhodian/banner/waves_image__iStock-2180697289_fspncb.jpg","url2x":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/c_limit,w_960/v1756873456/rhodian/banner/waves_image__iStock-2180697289_fspncb.jpg"},"bubble":{"url":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/c_limit,w_64/v1756873456/rhodian/banner/waves_image__iStock-2180697289_fspncb.jpg","url2x":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/c_limit,w_128/v1756873456/rhodian/banner/waves_image__iStock-2180697289_fspncb.jpg"}}}},"type":{"id":"67eb766aab8387072860c8e4","name":"Insights","slug":"insights","__typename":"Platform_PostType"},"published":"2026-05-14T05:33:48.56","authors":[]},{"id":"6a38863916ed1faf4ca34f9c","name":"Trailer Fires. It’s Not What You Think.","path":"/posts/trailer-fires-its-not-what-you-think","slug":"trailer-fires-its-not-what-you-think","__typename":"Platform_Post","_schema":{"label":"Post","pluralLabel":"Posts"},"intro":{"plain":"Trailer fires are appearing more frequently in carriers loss histories. And the cause isn’t what most people assume. It’s not cargo type, it’s not hot works, it’s not a one-off. It’s trailers - how they’re maintained, and how they’re being operated. And it’s the load that pays the price.\n","text":"Trailer fires are appearing more frequently in carriers loss histories. And the cause isn’t what most people assume. It’s not cargo type, it’s not hot works, it’s not a one-off. It’s trailers - how they’re maintained, and how they’re being operated. And it’s the load that pays the price."},"content":{"text":"**The maintenance problem**\n\nWorn bearings, degraded brake components, and compromised wiring don’t announce themselves. They build quietly between service intervals and a trailer that passes a visual inspection can still be carrying a developing fault that heat and load will eventually surface.\n\nWe’re seeing fires that trace directly back to maintenance that was compliant on paper but missed what mattered. Grease that wasn’t replaced properly. Bearings that were marginal and kept running. Electrical faults that weren’t picked up until something ignited.\nBy the time the trailer is on fire, so is the cargo.\n\nService intervals are a minimum standard. They’re not a guarantee.\n\n**The operational problem**\n\nEven a well-maintained trailer can destroy a load if it never gets a proper rest.\nWheel bearings and brake systems generate significant heat under load. Under normal conditions that’s manageable - the vehicle stops, things cool down, grease does its job.\n\nThe problem is continuous operation without adequate cooling time. Short stops that don’t allow components to cool, tight turnarounds, back-to-back runs, these all contribute. The trailer keeps moving, heat keeps building, and grease that’s been degrading all day eventually can’t do its job.\n\nTwo-up driving arrangements make this worse. A single driver has to stop legally, they have no choice. Under two-up, a second driver takes over while the first rests, and the trailer never stops at all. Not every operator runs this way, but for those under commercial pressure on time and cost, it’s an attractive arrangement. For the bearings and the cargo sitting above them, it’s the worst case.\n\nThe common thread isn’t the driver arrangement. It’s commercial pressure time and cost overriding what the equipment actually needs. The cargo pays for it.\n\n**The insurance gap**\n\nMost carriers policies cover fire. The question is whether there’s any wording that gives the insurer or the operator a meaningful handle on this specific risk.\n\nUsually there isn’t.\n\nStandard maintenance conditions cover service intervals. They don’t cover bearing condition between services, and they don’t cover what happens thermally during a day’s operation. An operator can have a clean service history and still be running well beyond any reasonable thermal limit mid-trip, with someone else’s cargo on board.\n\nThat’s the gap.\n\n**What actually helps**\n\nOn the maintenance side, pre-trip inspection discipline that goes beyond the checklist. Bearings, brake components, wiring. If something doesn’t look or sound right, it gets looked at before the trailer moves.\n\nOn the operational side, infrared thermometers applied during the trip, not just at the start. Every driver changeover, every fuel stop, at a minimum every 8 hours. If a bearing is running hot, stand the trailer down until it cools and someone has had a proper look. Log it.\n\nOperators who do both are carrying a materially different risk to those who don’t. Brokers who can evidence it at placement should be getting a better result and their clients’ cargo owners should be sleeping easier.\n\n**Worth a look**\n\nTrailer fires from maintenance failures and continuous operation are a growing loss trend on carriers policies. The good news is they’re largely preventable and operators who get on top of it protect their own loss ratio and keep their premiums under control.\n\nIf it’s something you’re seeing in your book, happy to talk through it.\n"},"title":null,"openGraph":{"description":{"plain":"Trailer fires are appearing more frequently in carriers loss histories. And the cause isn’t what most people assume. It’s not cargo type, it’s not hot works, it’s not a one-off. It’s trailers - how they’re maintained, and how they’re being operated. And it’s the load that pays the price.\n"},"image":{"url":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/v1782089234/rhodian/banner/truck-fire_image__iStock-1430501743_mquhtn.jpg","url2x":null,"thumbnails":{"card":{"url":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/c_limit,w_480/v1782089234/rhodian/banner/truck-fire_image__iStock-1430501743_mquhtn.jpg","url2x":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/c_limit,w_960/v1782089234/rhodian/banner/truck-fire_image__iStock-1430501743_mquhtn.jpg"},"bubble":{"url":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/c_limit,w_64/v1782089234/rhodian/banner/truck-fire_image__iStock-1430501743_mquhtn.jpg","url2x":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/c_limit,w_128/v1782089234/rhodian/banner/truck-fire_image__iStock-1430501743_mquhtn.jpg"}}}},"type":{"id":"67eb766aab8387072860c8e4","name":"Insights","slug":"insights","__typename":"Platform_PostType"},"published":"2026-06-22T01:49:04.78","authors":[{"openGraph":{"image":{"url":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/v1723015671/rhodian/person/ainsley-smith_photo__Ainesley_yijmkz.webp","url2x":null}},"_schema":{"label":"Person","pluralLabel":"People"},"id":"667b864924419faa5127f4e1","name":"Ainsley Smith","slug":"ainsley-smith","path":"/people/ainsley-smith","organisation":{"id":"65dec94bf9bc8b1fd8c96202","name":"Marinex Underwriting"},"linkedin":"https://www.linkedin.com/in/ainsley-smith-2a18a851/","photo":{"id":"image_rhodian/person/ainsley-smith_photo__Ainesley_yijmkz","url":"https://res.cloudinary.com/shapeable/image/upload/v1723015671/rhodian/person/ainsley-smith_photo__Ainesley_yijmkz.webp","url2x":null,"type":"image/webp"}}]}]}}}