It’s well known within our industry that while people often stumble upon insurance as a career, once on board, they seldom leave. Most people stay because they genuinely love making a difference, and often at their clients’ greatest times of need. Karen Coates is no different.
Karen’s insurance journey began in May 2005 with I C Frith North Canterbury, which later merged with Abbott Insurance Brokers in 2018. From day one, she felt the strength of a tight-knit, community focused team culture. “We were all on the same page, with the same work ethic,” she recalls. That shared sense of purpose and care for clients and colleagues alike is something Karen has carried forward ever since.
In the early days, starting as a Broker Assistant in a small office meant jumping into everything from processing, claims, phone calls with clients, and yes, even making coffee for the boss. Now an Account Executive, Karen says not much has changed over the years, except for the new financial advice regime that came into effect in 2021 and the fact the boss now makes her own coffee!
Throughout her time with Abbott Insurance Brokers, Karen’s always been someone you can count on. Whether she’s calmly supporting a client through a claim, answering a curly question, or offering a witty take on the morning-tea conversation, she brings a steady hand and a kind heart to everything she does. “Our clients are our priority, and great relationships are still the glue that bind us. Over the years, it’s been a privilege to call many of our clients friends, and we earn their trust and friendship every day by our actions.”
This year, Karen stepped out of her comfort zone to give an insurance presentation to the local Citizen’s Advice Bureau alongside her colleague and Rangiora manager, Jo Taylor. It was a proud moment for her, having previously volunteered with CAB herself. “It was a bit daunting at first,” she says, “but the discussion flowed, and the volunteers were so grateful.”
Reflecting on her time in the industry Karen says she’s been lucky to work with some wonderful people, including early mentors Ian and Dorothy Brown, Roger Price, Lindsay Kerr, Jo Taylor, and of course, her teammates in the Rangiora branch.
There have been a few unforgettable experiences along the way, too, like the time Karen and Jo toured the HMAS Onslow submarine while at the Steadfast Conference in Sydney in 2017. “We were on a break talking to an enthusiastic supporter of the Museum, and before you know it, we had a private tour lined up. It was amazing!”
Her advice to anyone starting out? “Listen and learn from your peers. Not everything fits in a box (except Jack). Don’t be afraid – things are never as drastic as they may seem.”
As Karen looks ahead, her priorities are clear: “Good health, family and travel.” We couldn’t agree more.
Karen, thank you for the huge contribution you’ve made over the past 20 years. You’ve shaped the client experience in Rangiora and beyond, and we’re lucky to have you in our esteemed team – the Abbott 20-Year Club!
If you’re local and passing by, call in and see the team at Unit 2, 130 Percival Street, Rangiora or give them a call on (03) 313 6086.
Jo, Karen and the team are always happy to assist and can advise you about a range of insurance solutions from business and personal covers, to rural, farm and lifestyle insurance.
