In our series on the staff behind ActiveQuote’s success, it’s time to meet Ben Sparey, our protection sales team leader. Specialising in income protection and life insurance, he’s worked here for three years and heads up a team of 16.

Tell us about your first job

I didn’t go to university; I’m fresh out of the university of life. Although, looking back, I wish I had – simply for the social side, not educational purposes! My first job was at Showcase Cinemas, selling popcorn and drinks. I thoroughly enjoyed it, to be fair, but perhaps not the £4.20 per hour!

How did you get into working in insurance?

I left my old job at Sky to work at ActiveQuote. I didn’t know a lot about insurance at the time, but I’ve learned a great deal in the last three years.

What are the main things you’ve learned working here?

At ActiveQuote I’ve seen how every person is different. I’ve realised the importance of working with that, not going against it, to get the best out of and develop individuals.

What are the next steps for you?

I’m not too sure of immediate next steps, but I plan to progress through the company and hope to have a long career with ActiveQuote!

What are the best things about working here?

The people here are great; everyone knows each other and we have a great laugh, which makes you want to come to work! Also, being part of a growing company is exciting. ActiveQuote has undergone massive growth since I started working here in February 2015, and we’re now pretty much full in our current office. If we expand anymore, we’ll have to move!

What do you do when not at work?

Outside of work I play rugby for Caerphilly RFC. I have played for 19 years and at the same club, and I plan on staying there until I retire. I play most sports, including squash, badminton, football, as I am pretty competitive. I’m probably not the best but I always give 100%!

Tell us something we probably don’t know about you.

I have a whippet named Russell who’s nine months old. My favourite £3 meal deal is a chicken and stuffing sandwich with baked cheese and onion crisps and a Pepsi Max!