Maciej Rymaniak, mortgage and protection adviser at Five Star Mortgages, speaks to Health & Protection about loving doing a job that matters, why his taxi-driving dad is his role model and his love for firestarters, twisted firestarters – despite initially wanting to be a firefighter.
How did you get your start in the sector?
Well, I didn’t grow up dreaming of being a protection adviser. I wanted to be a firefighter — running into burning buildings, saving kittens, looking heroic in slow motion. But then I realised: I’m better at keeping people from financial fires than actual ones. Fewer flames, more forms.
My first real step into the sector came when I helped a friend figure out their cover — or the lack of it. It hit me that most people are unprepared for life’s what-ifs?
So, I trained, got certified, and now I help clients put the right cover in place before life starts throwing sparks. It’s not quite a fire engine but — helping families stay financially safe still feels like a rescue mission most days.
What do you enjoy most about your current role?
Helping people feel secure about their future. Many people don’t think about protection until something bad happens — and by then, it’s often too late. So, being able to sit down with them, talk things through, and actually put something in place that protects them and their families – that feels like I’m doing something that matters.
I also like that no two people or situations are the same. Everyone has different priorities, whether it’s their kids, their mortgage, or just knowing they’ll be okay if something unexpected happens. It keeps the job interesting, and I enjoy being the one they trust to sort it out.
And on top of that, I like the human side — having honest conversations, helping people make informed choices, and knowing I’ve made their lives a bit easier. That’s a good feeling at the end of the day
Who is your role model – in life or in work?
My role model is my dad. He was a taxi driver, and one of the hardest-working people I’ve ever known.
He worked long hours, often seven days a week, to ensure our family had everything we needed. He never complained — he just got on with it, always putting us first.
What stuck with me wasn’t just how hard he worked, but the pride he took in providing for us, even when things weren’t easy. That mindset of showing up, doing your best, and looking after the people you care about — that’s something I carry with me in my work today.
Who has been your most important mentor in your career so far, and why?
That would be Marta Scott-Manuszewska, the founder of Five Star Mortgages. She’s taught me pretty much everything I know about the protection industry — not just the technical side of things but also how to actually work with people, have honest conversations, and do the job properly.
She’s got a no-nonsense approach and high standards, which at first were a bit intense, but I realised quickly that she genuinely cares about doing things the right way. That’s pushed me to improve, and I’ve learned a lot just by watching how she handles things.
What advice would you give to people thinking about a career in the sector?
If you enjoy talking to people, like helping others, and want a role that gives you real flexibility, this is a great sector to get into. It’s not always easy — you’ve got to be motivated and willing to learn — but it’s rewarding.
You’re not just selling something; you’re giving people peace of mind. And if you do it properly, they’ll genuinely appreciate what you’ve done for them. So, if you’re someone who cares about making a difference and you’re up for a challenge, look no further.
What has been your biggest setback, and how did you overcome it?
My most significant setback was probably right at the start of my career in protection. I underestimated how tough it would be to build trust with clients, especially when discussing something as personal as their finances and future.
Knowing the products would be enough but quickly realised that people don’t just buy protection — they buy into you first.
It was a reality check, but I took it on board. I focused on improving my communication, listening, and making things simple for people. Over time, that built my confidence — and more importantly, it built trust with clients.
Now I see that early struggle as one of my best learning curves.
Laugh or cry – what did your most memorable client or case make you want to do and why?
Always laugh — I’m all about positive vibes. One of my most memorable clients was convinced they didn’t need any cover because, I quote, “I’m indestructible.” We laughed, but after a proper chat (and a few reality checks), they thanked me for helping them see the bigger picture.
Moments like that stick with me because they remind me that this job isn’t just serious talk — it’s about connecting with people, having honest conversations, and sometimes sharing a laugh while sorting out something essential. That balance is what I love most about the job.
What’s your ultimate goal for your career?
To help as many people as I can by giving them the right protection and peace of mind. Just as importantly, I want to be present for my own family. That balance really matters to me.
I work hard for my clients because I know family security is important — I see it at home daily.
But I also want to be around for the little moments: school runs, family dinners, weekends that aren’t spent staring at a laptop.
Success isn’t just about career growth — it’s about building a life where I can support others while still showing up fully for my own family.
How would your boss describe you?
I’d like to think she’d say I’m committed, passionate about my work, and someone she can count on — unless there are biscuits involved, in which case I might get distracted for a minute.
But on a serious note, I always try to give 100%, stay consistent, and do the job properly. I don’t do shortcuts and genuinely care about getting things right for clients.
What is your biggest talent away from work?
Singing — or at least, I think it is. I’m probably the only one who does, to be honest. You won’t catch me on The Voice anytime soon, but I give it 100% in the car or shower. Full performance, no shame.
It’s my go-to way to switch off and have a laugh. Whether I sound good or not is… debatable.
What mantra do you live by?
‘Do your best; people will follow you if you’re genuine and kind.’
If you’re honest and put in the effort, things tend to fall into place — whether with clients, colleagues, or just in life. Being real and kind goes a long way.
What song would you regard as your theme tune?
Firestarter by The Prodigy. It’s got that energy to keep me going, even when things get hectic. It also reminds me not to take things too seriously all the time.