For almost 10 years, Paul has been giving our customers the information they need to choose the right insurance policy for them. He’s the latest in our series of introducing you to the helpful COTA Insurance team.
What’s your role at COTA Insurance?
I have been working as a Travel Insurance Consultant with COTA Insurance since 2010. I like speaking to our customers to help them understand the cover we offer and answer their questions to make it easier for them to choose a policy that’s right for them.
What’s something you like to do when you’re not at work?
Like many Australians, I like to travel and one of my favourite trips so far was New Zealand. Among the highlights was catching the TranzAlpine Railway from Christchurch to Greymouth and visiting Fox Glacier. It was my first time seeing a glacier and I was surprised how I could walk right up to it and see all the crevasses, and hear it moving (and cracking). A small part even fell off while I was there. If you’ve been lucky enough to visit Doubtful Sound, you’ll know the scenery is beautiful and the water is flat and calm. It’s harder to get to than the better known Milford Sound and it meant we were the only boat on the water at the time. Finally, the Southern Alps mountain range on the South island was amazing to see. Coming from flat, often brown and hot Adelaide, New Zealand was spectacular with its snow-capped mountains and lush greenery. I definitely recommend it as a travel destination.
What do you think makes COTA Insurance different to other insurers?
We put members before shareholders. Because COTA Insurance is a not for profit organisation, we are able to take time to listen to what our customers need. Our close connection with the COTA network across Australia gives us a genuine understanding of what older Australians need and what’s important to them – this includes good old-fashioned customer service.
What’s something people might not know about us?
I work in Adelaide and our office is in the same building as COTA SA. For those living locally, it’s easy to drop in and speak to us in person when you’re next visiting the team next door.
Can you describe a time when you were really proud to work here?
Some people feel odd putting family and friends onto a product or service through work, but I had no hesitation recommending COTA Travel Insurance to my brother and sister-in-law for their holiday to Bali. It turns out they were stuck there for an extra week due to a volcano erupting. The insurance policy covered their accommodation and living expenses for the extra time until they could safely return to Australia. This was great, as this story, like many others, is what gives me the confidence to be an advocate for COTA Insurance. My family was very happy with their cover and the claims process, and because they aren’t over 50 it shows we can also help people at any age!
How would you describe what someone can expect when they talk to COTA Insurance about their insurance needs?
Our team is knowledgeable and experienced and that means we often anticipate the answers to questions before they’re even asked. We really do pride ourselves on our personalised service and our clients really value their experience with us.
Is there anything else you’d like to say to someone considering using COTA Insurance?
If you are planning a trip or would like to compare your existing policy – home and contents, car, caravan or boat – just give us a call. We aren’t pushy and I believe you’ll be pleasantly surprised with the options and service we can give to you.
Paul is one of many people that make COTA Insurance different to for-profit insurers. Call us on 1300 1300 50 and experience the difference today.
