For this month’s CSR Profile, we’re shining the spotlight on BMS Group, as told by Neil Prior, Group Head of Environmental & Social Responsibility.

Please provide a short outline of your current role and a brief description of any other relevant career experience:
Having held a number of roles within the insurance industry – broking, underwriting and having my own business since leaving school in 1986, my role at BMS Group for the past two years has been focused on the important topics of environmental and social responsibility.

Why is CSR important to your organisation?
 Part of BMS’s mission statement is to build a socially responsible organisation that helps people, businesses and communities flourish and prosper in a world of risk. Therefore, CSR is embedded into our culture.

Which topics, themes or initiatives is your organisation currently focused on?
At BMS the themes of our focus are – Youth, Education & Community. For example, we have recently launched an Apprentice Scheme (aimed at school-leavers), we have been engaging with the local communities that surround us in the City of London – this includes our partnership with ELBA which is already gathering pace and being of mutual benefit. BMS is determined to broaden the appeal of working in the insurance industry and to offer career opportunities to many who may not have felt that it was a business sector that was interesting or interested in them.

What is the best part of your job?
 Working for a well-led company that values its people, recognises everyone’s contribution and encourages team work as a means to succeed.