As Readhunt London Markets continues to evolve, we're introducing the people behind the business. First up is Spike Dolphin, Divisional Director, whose career in the Lloyd's and wider London insurance markets spans more than a decade. We sat down with Spike to learn more about his journey into insurance, his vision for Readhunt and why relationships remain at the heart of everything he does.
Tell us about your career journey
Like many people, I never planned to end up in insurance.
With a place at university confirmed, I decided to take some work experience during the summer to get a feel for working life before making a final decision. Two months later, I was offered a job and realised I would be better suited to spending three years learning on the ground rather than obtaining a degree.
Ten years on, I can confidently say it was the right decision.
Since starting my career in 2015, I've developed broad experience across the Lloyd's and London markets, working with clients and underwriters across a range of classes. Throughout that time, I've built my approach around strong relationships, clear communication and finding practical solutions that create long-term value for clients.
What is your vision for Readhunt London Markets?
My vision is to build a brokerage that clients turn to regardless of market conditions.
Insurance markets will always move through hard and soft cycles, but those factors are outside any broker's control. What truly differentiates a business is its service, expertise and relationships.
Our success comes from delivering an unrivalled level of service and maintaining strong, trusted relationships with both clients and insurer partners. By understanding our clients' needs, providing honest advice and leveraging the right market connections, Readhunt can consistently deliver the solutions clients require whatever the market environment.
The goal is simple: to be the first call our clients make because they know they will receive exceptional service, expert guidance and a team that will always go the extra mile on their behalf.
How has the market changed since you began your career?
Over the last decade, the market has continued to evolve through increased digitalisation and more efficient ways of trading business. However, one thing hasn't changed: insurance remains a people business.
Relationships with brokers, underwriters and clients are still fundamental, and the real differentiator is having the right team around you. The best outcomes are rarely achieved by one individual alone; they come from talented people working together, combining expertise, trust and a shared commitment to finding solutions.
That's what will continue to drive success in the years ahead.
What qualities are most important in this industry?
For me, it comes down to three things: trust, expertise and service.
Clients need confidence that you understand their challenges and have access to the right solutions. Equally important is building lasting relationships with insurer partners and maintaining a collaborative approach.
Ultimately, this industry is built on people, and reputation is everything.
What do you enjoy outside work?
Outside the office, you'll usually find me on a golf course or a padel court.
While both provide a welcome break from the day-to-day, I've always found they offer something more valuable too – an opportunity to build and strengthen relationships away from the trading floor. In an industry built on trust, some of the best conversations happen outside the office and those connections are often just as important as the deals themselves.
Looking ahead
I'm excited about what lies ahead for Readhunt London Markets.
As we continue to grow, our focus will remain the same: building the right team, strengthening relationships and delivering the service and expertise that clients value most. Markets will continue to change, but by staying close to our clients and working collaboratively with our partners, we'll continue to create solutions that stand the test of time.
For more information about Readhunt London Markets, contact spike.dolphin@readhunt.co.uk.