From Birmingham to Leeds to Leamington Spa and back to London, just in time for a last-minute cover story swap

Wednesday

Off to Birmingham today, for a roundtable discussion with RSA and a senior group of brokers on what makes good service. It’s simple, according to the brokers: consistency, communication and transparency. The brokers are also keen to reward their long-term partners when given the opportunity to do so – this is one tough market for new entrants.

Thursday

To Leeds today for a Biba lunch. I find the local brokers in good fettle, although they go strangely quiet when the hot topic of poaching staff is mentioned. I’m intrigued to hear details of the cut-throat, military means that some brokers use to win business from their rivals. It makes journalism look like a tame profession!

Friday

A focus group on the new-look Insurance Times. It’s a thumbs-up from the Leeds market, and my thanks to them for some interesting insights into how our readers use the magazine and website. Then it’s off to Leamington Spa for the IIB’s last annual dinner as a standalone organisation. It’s the end of an era …

Monday

Back in the office for the judging of our forthcoming technology awards. It’s interesting to see how certain companies are attempting to push the boundaries in such a traditional industry as insurance.

Tuesday

Press day dawns, and it’s all about referral fees. Following the blanket coverage of Jack Straw’s intervention on the national media last night and this morning, it’s action stations as we decide to change this week’s cover at the eleventh hour.