In this team spotlight, we caught up with Ellie, Senior Account Handler at our Evesham Office, to talk about her career, her passion for horse racing, and her insights into the specialist world of equine insurance.

A Passion for Horses and Horse Racing

Do you have an interest in horses yourself?

I love horse racing. My dad used to have a racehorse, so I grew up around the sport and have been watching it since I was a child. That background has definitely helped me when working in equine insurance.

Expert Insights into Equine Insurance

What’s one thing people often don’t realise about equine insurance?

A lot of people don’t realise how limited the equine insurance market is. There’s also a big difference between the racehorse (thoroughbred) insurance market and the livery or leisure horse market. The risks, cover, and insurers involved can be quite different, so it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach.

The Variety of Working in Insurance

What do you enjoy most about working in insurance?

I really enjoy the variety. No two days are the same—one moment I might be dealing with haulage, the next it could be racehorses and equine insurance, then construction projects or even high-net-worth clients. I’m always learning about different industries and risks.

Achievements at Hazelton Mountford

What’s your proudest achievement during your time at Hazelton Mountford?

Definitely achieving my diploma. It took a lot of hard work and dedication alongside my day-to-day role, so it felt like a big milestone.

Advice for Horse Trainers on Equine Insurance

What advice would you give a horse trainer looking for equine insurance?

I’d say the most important thing is to prioritise health & safety and risk assessments, and to make sure they’re done properly and reviewed regularly. Ideally, this should be done with expert input, because these documents can be the strongest defence against claims. High-value claims are putting a lot of strain on the equine insurance market right now, so being proactive about risk management is absolutely vital.

A Day in the Life at Hazelton Mountford

What does a typical day at Hazelton Mountford look like?

Busy! A lot of my time is spent preparing and negotiating renewals, going back and forth with insurers over claims and terms, and making sure all the necessary paperwork is completed for clients. Whether it’s equine insurance or another sector, the focus is always on delivering the right cover and service.

Ellie’s passion for horses and her expertise in equine insurance make her an invaluable member of the Hazelton Mountford team. Her ability to balance specialist knowledge with a broad understanding of different industries ensures that clients receive the very best support.