Hannah White, protection advisor at Thomas Honour Mortgage Services (pictured), speaks to Health & Protection about starting out in protection as an administrator, helping a client who had lost her husband aged just 27 and why she always takes inspiration from the best day of her life.
How did you get your start in the sector?
I started as an administrator, quickly found a passion for the industry, and naturally progressed to become an adviser.
What do you enjoy most about your current role?
It’s knowing that we leave people in a position where, no matter what happens, their financial future is protected.
It’s reassuring to know they won’t lose the homes they’ve worked so hard to achieve, and that their families are safeguarded.
Who is your role model – in life or in work?
My husband. He inspires me because he strives to be the best in everything he does—whether it’s work, sport, relationships, or family life.
Who has been your most important mentor in your career so far and why?
It’s a combination of Tom (Thomas Honour) and Gary (Gary Waters), my protection coach.
Both have dedicated their time and shared invaluable advice over the last 18 months, helping me develop my knowledge, technique, and confidence.
They’ve given me the belief in myself that I needed to grow.
What advice would you give to people thinking about a career in the sector?
There’s plenty of red tape, and at first, the number of products and providers can feel overwhelming.
But despite the challenges, the reward of genuinely supporting someone and their family during one of the most difficult times in their life makes it all worthwhile. It’s a fulfilling career that can make a real difference.
What has been your biggest setback and how did you overcome it?
Getting cover declined when a client so desperately wants and needs it. After spending weeks or even months working with a provider, thinking you’ve found the right fit, and then having the application declined, it’s heartbreaking.
It feels like you’ve failed the client. But I’ve learned to pick myself up, reach out to my BDMs, and keep pushing.
With every challenge, I’ve gained more knowledge and experience, which helps me better support clients and secure the terms they need.
Laugh or cry – what did your most memorable client or case make you want to do and why?
Cry. I had a young client—just 27—who kept putting off her protection policies and missing meetings.
Over Christmas, I took some time off, and when I returned in January, I found an urgent email from her.
Sadly, her son’s father had suddenly passed away over the holiday period. It made her realise that she wasn’t invincible just because she was young.
Thankfully, she’s doing well, and we’ve now put all the necessary protection in place to ensure her son is financially secure no matter what happens.
What’s your ultimate goal for your career?
To become a specialist in protection and, one day, work in a role where I can help educate other advisers as well.
How would your boss describe you?
Honest but fair, hardworking, kind, and a true team player.
What is your biggest talent away from work?
Being a mum to my three children.
What mantra do you live by?
If you’re kind to others, they’ll be kind to you.
What song would you regard as your theme tune?
Best Day of My Life by American Authors—it’s happy and energetic, a celebration of living in the moment and appreciating the little things.
My life is always busy, but I know what truly matters.