Q&A with Insurance Fraud Awards young investigator winner Adam Grady

The details of how to apply ahead of the deadline of the 29th June can be found here; and details of the awards evening on the 6th October here.

And to help you see what makes a winner, we caught up with the 2015 Young Fraud Investigator Adam Grady of Cega to see what had happened to him since his victory last year.

What are your fondest memories of winning The Young Fraud Investigator Award?

The recognition from the vastly experienced judges and also clients that attended the award ceremony with us. In addition, when we got back into the office the following afternoon I received a standing ovation from around 60 staff who work in our claims department and Special Investigations Unit.

Where do you keep your trophy?

The trophy is kept alongside Cega's 2011 winner's trophy for 'Independent Fraud Investigation Team of the Year'. Both of which are situated on a cabinet next to the team.

What has been the most significant thing that has happened to you in terms of your working life, since winning the Award?

More responsibility within the business that has led to me handling more complex / high value investigations. I also received commendation from numerous different clients that weren't able to attend the event. Also, some of Cega's overseas network investigators acknowledged my achievement which shows how far reaching the fraud awards are. The additional money also didn't go a miss as I have just moved into a new house with my fiancée.

Do you think fraud investigation has moved up the boardroom agenda since you started working in insurance?

Without a doubt. Fraud is affecting our clients bottom lines and we are seeing more clients take a zero tolerance to fraud as they want to protect their genuine customers. This is supported by the increase in the number of instructions received from new and existing clients.

If you were to encourage someone to work in fraud investigation, what would you tell them to make them realise what an exciting space it is?

In my opinion, fraud investigation it is not just a job, it's a career. You've got to live and breathe what is an extremely challenging but ultimately rewarding role.

Where do you hope to be in 10 years in terms of your career?

I want to continue my progression within Cega, which will hopefully lead to more opportunities to elevated roles in the future.

What do you think is the biggest change in terms of what is happening in fraud detection and investigation presently?

Public awareness of the impact of fraud and the different types of fraud has increased significantly over the last 18 months, mainly due to increased media coverage (which Cega have contributed to), and the excellent work that IFED and supporting police forces conduct to bring fraudsters to justice. As a result of this I would like to think that the general public further appreciate what some people may see as a victimless crime does have a huge impact on insurance premiums.