From Sweet Shops to Underwriting: Glenn Marshall on Building a Business That Sticks to What It Knows
Glenn doesn’t love the limelight. So, when he agreed to record a podcast sharing his story, it was never going to be flashy. Just honest, grounded, and full of practical wisdom – in other words, very Glenn.
In this episode of People in Insurance: Changing the Conversation, with the lovely Sarah Myerscough, Glenn shares the journey that took him from a would-be electrician to founding Gem Underwriting, an MGA built on straight-talking, fast decisions, and strong broker relationships.
And yes, the name Gem comes from the sweet shop his parents ran in Tilbury. “I always said to my mum, if I ever own my own business, that’s what I’m going to call it.”
Glenn talks candidly about:
- Early days at Lloyd’s and the mentors who shaped his career
- Big claims and even bigger lessons
- Why knowing your limits is a strength in business
- The challenge of staying human in a digital world
- And what it’s like launching a company with your daughter (rewarding, slightly terrifying, and very real)
“Stick to what you know. Don’t get too big for your boots.”
There’s even a surprise appearance from our host’s daughter, Isabel, who turns the tables and asks Glenn what advice he’d give a young entrepreneur just starting out.
Whether you’re deep in the industry or enjoy a good founder story, this one’s worth a listen.
Watch the episode here: