Collingwood
With a business that is built on calculating risk, Collingwood Insurance Services is a master of the art of weighing up ‘pros and cons’ and then making the right decision. And for chief executive Steve Welton, being located in North Tyneside is one judgement call that is paying dividends.
We can attract people from right across the North East, because the transport infrastructure is excellent. Tyne Tunnel Two has had a big impact on that. We have been able to attract people who live 30 or so miles away, because we are well-served when it comes to road access.
Steve Welton, Collingwood
“We have a 9.7 Trustpilot rating. I think that tells you all you need to know about the standard of customer service we are able to deliver out of our base in North Tyneside,” says Steve, who has been at the helm of the company since 2007.
“We can attract excellent people. Ambitious people who want to grow with our business. And we create opportunities for them to develop. We are an Investors in People (IIP) gold award employer, something we retained last year which was a huge achievement; what it means is that there are pathways for our team, so, invariably, they stay with us.
“They’re loyal, hardworking, committed and they have that customer focus that a business like ours is built on.”
Having started with a team of 27, Steve has ensured that Collingwood Insurance has adapted quickly to the changing marketplace and – eleven years since he joined – the business now employs over 200 people in a range of roles – from legal, to customer service, to IT.
Selling and servicing car insurance policies for customers across the UK, the business is based at Royal Quays, with two offices – Collingwood House and Admiral House – just a stone’s throw from major roads including the Tyne Tunnels. Steve believes that the location of the company has played an important part in its rapid expansion.
“We can attract people from right across the North East, because the transport infrastructure is excellent. Tyne Tunnel Two has had a big impact on that. We have been able to attract people who live 30 or so miles away, because we are well-served when it comes to road access.
“We also have some excellent universities on the doorstep, and they’re producing highly-prized professionals who can add huge value to our team.”
And, being based in this part of the world – famed for its friendliness means customers of Collingwood are served by people who deliver excellent service.
“We frequently receive letters from customers who have been so impressed by the service we’ve provided that they’ve felt compelled to write to us. That’s down to the team in North Tyneside.”