Spotlight on…is an initiative of WICI (Women in Credit Insurance) aiming at highlighting females and male allies working in the Trade Credit Insurance business. Every month, a new interview article will be published on ICISA website. 

With nearly 15 years of experience in the credit insurance industry, Peter Evola has built a career defined by growth, leadership, and a deep understanding of the market. He began his journey as an Administrative Assistant in the UK and progressed through roles in Commercial Underwriting, the Group function, and later as Head of Broker Distribution.

In late 2023, Pete was appointed Commercial Director at Allianz Trade UK & Ireland, where he now oversees all commercial functions—including New Business, Account Management, Commercial Underwriting, Marketing, and Customer Service.

Based in London, Pete is passionate about driving growth, building strong client relationships, and supporting his teams in delivering the best solutions for customers across the region.

What was your main motivation to support/endorse WICI?

My main motivation for supporting Women in Credit Insurance (WICI) is the belief that diversity and inclusion truly make a difference. WICI has created an incredible platform for women in our industry to connect, share experiences, and support each other. It’s amazing to see how these connections can open doors, spark new ideas, and build confidence. By fostering this sense of community, WICI is helping to create an industry where everyone feels like they belong, which is something that may have been missing before.

I’m also passionate about creating opportunities for future female leaders. WICI plays a key role in shaping a culture where diversity is the norm, and women have the support they need to thrive. This isn’t just beneficial for women; it’s a win for the entire industry. A mix of perspectives leads to better ideas, stronger businesses, and a more dynamic sector overall. Looking ahead, I have no doubt that WICI will continue to inspire and support more women in credit insurance, helping to shape an industry where diversity isn’t just a goal – it’s the standard.

Why do you believe in gender diversity in TCI?

I believe gender diversity is essential to the success of our industry. When employees feel valued, included, and respected, they are more engaged, motivated, and committed to their work. This doesn’t just benefit individuals; it leads to better outcomes for clients, partners, and businesses as a whole. Given that the Trade Credit Insurance industry serves a diverse range of businesses, having teams that reflect that diversity allows us to better understand and meet customer needs.

Beyond that, the data speaks for itself; companies with greater gender diversity tend to outperform their competitors. A variety of perspectives leads to more innovative problem-solving, better decision-making, and stronger business performance. Encouraging gender diversity also helps us attract and retain top talent, address skill shortages, and demonstrate our commitment to social responsibility. I’ve been fortunate to work with incredible female leaders throughout my career, and I’ve seen firsthand the value that diverse teams bring. When we champion diversity, we create a stronger, more resilient industry for everyone.

What is the most important lesson you’ve learned during your career?

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of challenging the status quo. In business, one of the most dangerous phrases is, “but that’s the way we’ve always done it.” Progress comes from questioning existing processes, embracing change, and being open to innovation. I’ve found that a curious mindset and a willingness to think differently can lead to better solutions, more efficient ways of working, and, ultimately, greater success.

On a personal level, one piece of advice that has always stuck with me is something a former manager once said: A career is like a buffet—you have to actively seek out opportunities and go after what you want because If you sit back and wait to be served, you risk missing out.

Taking initiative, putting yourself forward for new challenges, and continuously learning are key to career growth. The more proactive you are in shaping your own path, the more fulfilling and rewarding your journey will be.

What is your favorite part of your job?

What I love most about my job is the variety. No 2 days are ever the same! Credit insurance offers a unique window into so many different industries, and it’s fascinating to learn how different sectors operate and what impacts them. Not many roles give you exposure to such a wide range of businesses, and that keeps things fresh and exciting. Every day brings new challenges, and I love the problem-solving aspect of figuring things out.

I also really enjoy the people I work with. The credit insurance industry has a strong sense of community, and it’s great to collaborate with clients, partners, and colleagues who bring such a wealth of knowledge and experience. I’m constantly learning from those around me, whether it’s tackling a complex situation or coming up with creative solutions. The mix of diverse industries, great people, and continuous learning makes this job incredibly fulfilling. There’s a reason so many of us stay in the industry for so long (15 years and counting for me!).

How did you get to where you are today?

Like many people in this industry, I fell into credit insurance by accident after a friend recommended a junior role to me. Early on, I focused on making an impact by finding ways to improve my role, optimize tasks, and add value wherever I could. That mindset helped me gain early recognition, which eventually led to an incredible opportunity to work in Paris for our group team. At the time, taking that leap felt like a huge risk, but it turned out to be a game-changer for my career.

Working in Paris gave me a whole new perspective on how different countries and cultures approach our industry. Contrary to popular belief, the way things are done in the UK isn’t how the rest of the world operates! 😊 That experience broadened my understanding of global markets and taught me how to navigate the complexities of working in a multinational organization. It was a defining moment that gave me the confidence and knowledge to keep moving forward in my career.

Since returning to the UK in 2018, I’ve been focused on making an impact in the local market and contributing where I can. Looking back, I’m grateful for the experiences and opportunities that got me here, and I’m excited to see what’s next!