Emma Morris, senior consultant at NMG Consulting (pictured), speaks to Health & Protection about overcoming struggles with anxiety and confidence, taking inspiration from American gymnast, Simone Biles, her talent for hair braiding, and why would-be health and protection candidates should just go for it due to the many opportunities the sector has to learn, develop and grow.
How did you get your start in the sector?
I didn’t get started in the most traditional way. My educational background is maths and psychology – I really didn’t know what I wanted to do when I went to university so just chose subjects I enjoyed.
My dad was the person who first mentioned strategy consulting to me and two days’ work experience was enough for me to know that it was the industry for me.
I was lucky enough to get a place on NMG Consulting’s graduate scheme back in 2019 and very quickly realised that the health and protection market was where I wanted to focus.
Consulting in a data and insights led firm, with my industry specialism in protection is a great way to use both my maths and psychology skills, and five years later I haven’t looked back.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
I enjoy that every day looks slightly different and I get to work on such a variety of projects.
Whether it is creating project deliverables, building an Excel model or presenting to clients, I am constantly being challenged and I get to work with so many incredible people, both within NMG and the industry as a whole.
Who is your role model – in life or work?
In life, it would be American gymnast, Simone Biles. She has really shown the world her determination and what she is made of is just so inspiring with her redemption tour at this year’s Olympics.
In work, it would be my boss/manager Evan Baars. He was one of the first people I met at NMG, interviewing me for the graduate scheme.
Now working with him on a number of projects is an enjoyable working environment and I learn so much from every conversation.
No matter what challenge we are faced with, he always has a solution in mind and knows what should be done to produce the best possible outcomes for our clients.
What advice would you give to people thinking about a career in the sector?
I would say go for it. It is a great sector that has so many opportunities to learn and develop and grow.
It can be a bit daunting joining a sector that isn’t taught enough at schools but there are so many ways to learn about protection on the job.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions and sit in on meetings. There are so many people in this industry with a wealth of knowledge to share.
What has been your biggest setback and how did you overcome it?
I would say most likely overcoming anxiety and struggles with confidence. Both have been a big part of my life for as long as I can remember and a big challenge and focus for me has been not to let it interfere with my work.
Having always been the quiet one of my friendship groups, someone whose teachers joked that I only ever spoke to answer the register, it has taken a long time for me to bring out ‘Confident Emma,’ but it is something I always make a conscious effort to do at work.
I have been able to be open with my colleagues and they have really helped me find my confidence and bring me out of my shell.
Laugh or cry – what did your most memorable client or case make you want to do and why?
My clients are mainly insurance companies, distribution teams specifically, so they’re a little bit different to end consumers.
My most memorable scenario was probably the first time that I presented to a client – it was such a career defining (and very nerve-wrecking) moment, proving to myself that I can do it and that I have something to add.
It was such a rewarding moment to hear the client say that they got something valuable out of my presentation.
What’s your ultimate goal for your career?
I think my ultimate goal is to be the person who comes to mind whenever a company in the industry is facing a challenge and needs some help.
How would your boss describe you?
I went straight to the source and asked my boss.
He said he would describe me as sharp, driven and bringing a great energy to the office. He said I clearly care about the industry and delivering high quality analysis, insights and strategic understanding.
He was nice enough to say that I am a role model to colleagues in all aspects.
What’s your biggest talent away from work?
Probably hair braiding. It’s a bit of a random one but ever since I was a child I have loved experimenting with hair styles and using that as a way to be creative. Even now I am the go-to person in my friendship group whenever anyone wants a fancy style.
What mantra do you live by?
Two that I love are ‘If it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you” and “I can’t do it…YET”
What song do you regard as your theme tune?
Misery Business by Paramore. It’s nothing to do with the name or the lyrics, but just because it has been my comfort song for so long and listening to it always puts me in a good mood ready to take on the day.
