An interview with Scope's newest team member, Sam Hollands...

An interview with Scope's newest team member, Sam Hollands...

Joining Scope at an exciting stage of growth, Sam brings a relationship-driven approach and a clear focus on supporting brokers and delivering practical underwriting solutions in the construction space.

Give us a quick snapshot of your path into insurance. Was this always the plan, or did you find your way into it?

I studied mathematics and physics at Monash University. Insurance was something I always felt would pair well with my background, but in reality, I naturally gravitated toward the industry through word of mouth and its lively nature. Like most people, I’d say I fell into it.

You’re known as someone who builds strong relationships. What is it about working closely with brokers that you enjoy most?

I’ve always believed in finding solutions and building relationships by making a broker’s life easier. In turn, helping find the right solution for the client is incredibly satisfying. I’ve also found that there’s a wide range of personalities in insurance and broking, which really draws me to getting to know people better, everyone has their own unique story.

What made Scope the right move for you at this stage?

What drew me to Scope was the clear focus on development and growth. I’ve been impressed by how the company is constantly evolving and improving, and being part of that journey from an early stage feels like a rare and exciting opportunity. It’s not just about personal growth, it’s about contributing to a team that’s shaping the future of the business and making a tangible impact.

After meeting the team, what stood out about how Scope approaches brokers and underwriting?

I’ve found the team to be very supportive and always willing to help as I develop my knowledge in construction insurance. I believe this is also reflected in our underwriting approach, where we focus on finding solutions for both clients and brokers. We aim to help brokers secure the best possible terms for their clients, while also supporting them through the underwriting process and providing clear guidance on the products we offer.

From your perspective, what do brokers actually value most in an underwriter today?

Someone who is willing and able to educate others in a timely manner, and who values collaboration between underwriting and broking rather than treating them as separate functions. Working together ultimately leads to better outcomes for the client, with a strong focus on finding solutions.

What separates a good broker relationship from a great one?

One where we work collaboratively to find a solution, rather than taking a “you handle the broking and I’ll handle the underwriting” approach. When there’s genuine teamwork, it leads to the best outcomes and makes the experience far more enjoyable for both brokers and underwriters.

When you meet a broker for the first time, how do you go about understanding their business and how they like to work?

When I meet a broker for the first time, I focus on listening and learning about their business, clients, and preferred ways of working. Understanding their style early helps me tailor my approach so we can collaborate effectively and achieve the best outcomes for their clients.

What can brokers expect from you day to day in terms of responsiveness and support?

They can expect me to always be willing to go the extra mile for them. I want them to feel that I’m here to work alongside them and that I’m always available for a quick chat when needed.

As someone early in your underwriting career, where do you see yourself adding the most value right now?

I see myself bringing a fresh perspective to the team, while actively engaging in the market and helping to broaden Scope’s presence. My goal is to connect with brokers, have meaningful conversations about our products, and build strong, lasting relationships. I’m here to support both the team and our brokers, looking for opportunities to add value wherever I can, whether that’s through problem-solving, sharing insights, or helping secure the best outcomes for clients.

How are you approaching the balance between building technical expertise and staying commercially responsive to brokers?

I focus on building technical expertise by learning the details of our products and the construction industry, while staying commercially responsive by keeping brokers needs front of mind. It’s about being knowledgeable enough to offer the right solutions quickly, without losing sight of practical, real-world outcomes for their clients.

What are you most focused on building over the next 12 months?

Over the next 12 months, I’ll be focused on getting out and about with our clients, supporting them directly and representing Scope to the wider industry. To do this effectively, I want to build a deep understanding of our products and the construction sector, so I can provide practical solutions and insights. By combining hands-on client engagement with strong technical knowledge, I aim to strengthen relationships, add real value, and help both brokers and clients achieve their goals.

What would you like brokers to know about working with you?

I want brokers to know that I’m always approachable and happy to have a chat, whether it’s a quick call, a coffee, or a more in-depth meeting. My focus is on working alongside them, understanding their clients needs, and collaborating closely to find the best solutions. By building that open and supportive relationship, we can tackle challenges together, make the process smoother, and ultimately achieve the best outcomes for both their clients and our shared goals.

What keeps you busy when you’re not working?

Outside of work, I like to stay active and spend time with friends. You’ll usually find me on the golf course or playing tennis, enjoying a bit of friendly competition. If I’m not at home, I’ve likely headed out for a hike in the Victorian ranges.