With James Stares celebrating his first anniversary at Spinnaker, we thought it was the perfect time to catch up with him and get his take on life at the marine insurance desk. Over the past year, James has been at the heart of one of our most specialised teams, working closely with clients and candidates alike. We asked him to share what his first year has been like, what he’s noticed in the market, and his insights into what makes a standout insurance candidate today.

What are the “must-have” skills your clients are prioritising in insurance hires right now?
Clients are placing strong emphasis on solid technical experience within a specialist area, whether that is hull, cargo, P&I, energy, or war. Alongside technical knowledge, confidence in front of clients is essential — employers want individuals who can represent the business, handle challenging conversations, and build meaningful relationships with brokers and assureds. There is also a growing interest in candidates with seafaring or operational maritime backgrounds, as practical experience brings added credibility and a valuable real-world perspective.

Have you seen any noticeable shifts in demand over the past year?
There has been a clear shift towards hiring professionals who can hit the ground running, with less appetite for extensive training in the current market. War and related lines have been particularly busy, largely driven by ongoing geopolitical issues. Expat packages are also less common than before, with firms increasingly prioritising strong local talent, especially in Singapore and, to some extent, Dubai. While ESG and green-focused hiring remain relevant, immediate performance and geopolitical risk management are currently taking precedence in hiring decisions.

What distinguishes the strongest insurance candidates from the rest?
The strongest candidates demonstrate confidence and credibility when dealing with clients and are comfortable navigating complex or difficult conversations. They tend to be strategic in their career decisions and realistic about their progression and value in the market. Candidates who can bring an existing book of business or well-established industry relationships also stand out, as they offer immediate commercial value to employers.

Has your perception of the maritime sector changed over the past year?
Over the past year, it has become even clearer how global and exposed the maritime sector is, as well as how resilient it remains. Geopolitics, sanctions, supply chain disruption, and the energy transition are all influencing underwriting decisions and risk appetite across the market. Despite these external pressures, relationships continue to play a central role and, if anything, have become even more important.

What do you enjoy most about recruiting in the insurance space?
Working within a niche market where reputation truly matters is one of the most rewarding aspects. The role allows for the development of long-term, trust-based relationships with both clients and candidates, rather than simply focusing on filling vacancies. The depth and complexity of marine insurance also make it an engaging sector, as it is constantly evolving and shaped by global developments.

In three words, how would you describe your first year at Spinnaker?
Challenging, insightful, and rewarding.