Today, we’re thrilled to sit down with Simon Glairy, a trailblazer in the insurance and insurtech space with deep expertise in risk management and AI-driven risk assessment. Simon has been at the forefront of transforming how data and technology can redefine the insurance industry, making it more efficient and insightful for carriers and executives alike. In this conversation, we’ll explore the innovative approaches to solving data challenges in insurance, the impact of real-time intelligence on decision-making, and the personal journey that fuels his passion for this field. We’ll also dive into the future of insurtech and how it’s poised to reshape the industry for the better.
How did your journey in the insurance and insurtech space begin, and what sparked your interest in tackling data challenges for carriers?
My journey started with a fascination for how data could unlock hidden insights in complex industries like insurance. Early in my career, I saw firsthand how carriers struggled with fragmented systems and delayed insights, often leading to costly missteps. That frustration became my motivation. I wanted to build solutions that could bridge those gaps, and over time, my focus on AI and risk management evolved into a mission to bring clarity and precision to an industry that’s often bogged down by outdated processes. It’s incredibly rewarding to see technology finally catching up to these challenges.
What do you see as the biggest hurdle insurance carriers face when it comes to managing their data, and how can technology address it?
The biggest hurdle is the lack of visibility across siloed systems. Many carriers have financial, operational, and compliance data scattered in different places, making it nearly impossible to get a real-time picture of their business health. This creates blind spots that can affect everything from loss ratios to regulatory compliance. Technology, especially platforms that unify and reconcile data, can solve this by connecting those dots. It’s about creating a single source of truth that executives can rely on to make faster, smarter decisions without second-guessing the numbers.
Can you explain the concept of “data clarity” and why it’s so critical for insurance executives in today’s fast-paced environment?
Data clarity means having a clear, accurate, and immediate view of your business metrics without wading through noise or inconsistencies. For insurance executives, this is critical because the industry moves fast—market shifts, regulatory changes, or unexpected losses can happen overnight. Without clarity, they’re reacting to outdated or incomplete information, which can be disastrous. When you have a system that strips away the clutter and delivers actionable insights in real time, it’s like turning on a light in a dark room. You can finally see where you stand and act with confidence.
How does real-time data intelligence change the way insurance CFOs and leaders approach decision-making?
Real-time data intelligence is a game-changer because it shifts decision-making from reactive to proactive. Instead of waiting weeks for financial reports or struggling to trace why loss ratios spiked, CFOs can see those shifts as they happen and link them directly to specific events—like a surge in claims from a natural disaster. This immediacy allows leaders to adjust strategies on the fly, whether it’s reallocating resources or tightening underwriting in certain areas. It’s about staying ahead of the curve rather than playing catch-up, which can save millions in potential losses.
What role do you think automation plays in transforming operational stability for insurance carriers, and how can it be balanced with innovation?
Automation is the backbone of operational stability in insurance today. Tasks like data reconciliation or financial analysis, which used to take days or weeks, can now be handled instantly with the right tools. This frees up teams to focus on strategy rather than manual grunt work. But the balance with innovation is key—you can’t just automate for the sake of speed if it risks errors or instability. The trick is to design systems that are both cutting-edge and reliable, ensuring that every automated process is backed by rigorous checks. It’s about innovating responsibly so carriers don’t have to choose between progress and peace of mind.
How have you seen trust-building play a role in adopting new technologies among mid-market or regional insurers?
Trust is everything, especially for mid-market and regional insurers who often have tighter budgets and less room for error compared to the big players. They need to know that any new technology won’t disrupt their operations or leave them vulnerable. Building trust comes down to transparency—showing them exactly how a solution works, proving its results with hard data, and starting small with pilot projects to demonstrate value. Once they see tangible benefits, like cost savings or faster reporting, that trust solidifies. It’s a slow process, but it’s the only way to get buy-in from folks who’ve been burned by tech promises before.
Looking at the broader insurtech landscape, what do you think sets apart the companies that truly make an impact from those that don’t?
The companies that make an impact are the ones that solve real, painful problems with laser focus. Too many insurtechs chase trendy buzzwords like AI or blockchain without addressing the core issues carriers face, like data fragmentation or slow decision cycles. The standouts are those that listen to their clients, build practical tools that integrate seamlessly into existing workflows, and deliver measurable outcomes—whether that’s time saved or dollars earned. It’s not about being the flashiest; it’s about being the most useful. That’s what earns a lasting spot in this industry.
What’s your forecast for the future of insurtech, especially in terms of how data-driven solutions will shape the insurance industry over the next decade?
I think we’re on the cusp of a major shift where data-driven solutions become the foundation of every insurance operation. Over the next decade, I expect to see carriers fully embrace unified data platforms that not only provide real-time insights but also predict risks and trends using advanced AI. This will redefine everything from underwriting to claims processing, making the industry more agile and customer-focused. We’ll also see tighter integration between insurers and tech providers, creating ecosystems where data flows seamlessly. My forecast is optimistic—those who adapt to this data-first mindset will thrive, while those who resist will struggle to keep up in an increasingly competitive landscape.
