Make a Career Out of Better Decisions

Aoife Buckley

Why did you join Aon’s graduate programme?

I did my 8-month work placement with Aon in 2022, I really enjoyed it and got a bit of background to the different teams in Aon, so I had an idea which direction I wanted to go in and applied to the Global Clients team in Commercial Risk Solutions.

What did you enjoy most about the Aon graduate programme?

The best thing about the graduate programme is joining the company with a group of people you are all on the same boat as. It is also useful in the long run, joining with people from different departments we get to know what Human Capital and ACIA do, and if we have a question about either, we can ask one of the other graduates.

How you would describe the culture at Aon?

Everyone in Aon is very friendly, and always willing to help. When I first joined everyone made the effort to set up catch ups/coffees with us to tell us a bit about what they do, which made them very approachable when we were questioning something.

What’s next for you?

I finished the graduate programme in August, and since then I have been made Client Service Advisor. I continue to work on the Global Clients team, on the same clients that I had worked on throughout the year of the graduate programme.

Andrew Creamer

Why did you join Aon’s graduate programme?

Aon has an outstanding global reputation in the industry, so seeing an opportunity to apply was a no-brainer. AON offers world class practices and a diverse range of opportunities for all colleagues that join the company. This was something that was echoed on the graduate programme advertisement and throughout the course of the graduate programme. However, what truly set Aon apart was its desire and drive to retain graduates and develop their careers in whatever direction they wanted. This was something that during my graduate programme searches found to be unique. This, again, was clear throughout my time in the programme where Aon are clearly committed to employee growth, satisfaction and career development.

What did you enjoy most about the Aon graduate programme?

There were many highlights during the graduate programme. From an event perspective, the launch of the graduate programme in Madrid was a huge standout. All graduates were flown out to Madrid, for two days, to meet other graduates from across the EMEA region starting out on their Aon journey. We had opportunities to network with these graduates, talks from Aon leaders in the EMEA region about various aspects of the company and career development, and social events. This was a fantastic opportunity to build connections with the wider Aon community and to get a glimpse of how diverse the company is.

How you would describe the culture at Aon?

The culture at Aon is truly one of the standout aspects of working here. There is a strong sense of trust and respect that allows you to thrive without the pressures of unnecessary formality. What truly sets Aon apart is the people. Everyone is incredibly friendly, open, and approachable, all the way up through the company to the executives. It’s not uncommon for someone at any level of the company to make time for a coffee and chat, whether its to offer advice, share experiences or answer questions you may have.

The culture of support and empathy is deeply clear from the moment you set foot in the company. There’s a genuine desire among colleagues to see each other succeed, and this is reflected in the way everyone is willing to lend a hand, offer guidance, or simply listen when you need it. The environment is not only collaborative but also incredibly caring, with a focus on helping you achieve your goals and reach your full potential within the company. At Aon, you’re not just another employee – you’re part of a community that values your growth and wellbeing.

What’s next for you?

The great thing in Aon is that the world is your oyster when it comes to your career. You can start out in human capital but end up working in commercial risk if that was where your journey led you, no matter your background. For me now, my next step is to finish my QFA exams and continue my role as main administrator for private medical insurance (PMI) schemes. The next step after that is to become a PMI consultant. From there, who knows what path my career will take!

Frenkie Wang

Why did you join Aon’s graduate programme?

As my portrait shows, I am wearing the home shirt of Manchester United for the 2010-2011 Season, which is also the first year of Aon's sponsorship for the Manchester United Football Club. I often watched Manchester United's match when I was a kid, and I was deeply impressed by the badge of Aon. When I saw Aon was recruiting candidates for the 2023 graduate programme, I submitted my CV without hesitation.

What’s more, I was deeply interested in the JavaScript and React frameworks during my studies at University. Aon graduate programme provides the position of App Developer, which is consistent with the job I was pursuing.

What did you enjoy most about the Aon graduate programme?

In late September of 2023, all the Aon graduates from EMEA gathered in Madrid. We learned about Aon's culture, history, products, and values. We participated in many activities through randomly assigned groups, we took photos to memorize this business travel and we had dinner together in Aon head office.

Aon is a global multinational company. What I enjoyed most about the Aon graduate programme was that I could interact with graduates from other countries through this business travel, which made me feel connected to each other even though we came from different Aon offices in various countries .

How you would describe the culture at Aon?

As stated on Aon's official website -- We're United. Aon is united through trust into an inclusive, diverse team. Aon provides equal opportunities to students from every country, which allows me to join Aon as a graduate from a non-EU country. Aon demonstrates teamwork, collaboration and respect, and I feel a sense of belonging at Aon that allows me to thrive and grow to my full potential.

What’s next for you?

I just achieved my first-year working anniversary at Aon. As an App Developer who just finished the Aon graduate programme, I still have a lot to learn about, not only the programming skills but also the soft skills in working. Many thanks to Aon for selecting me to be part of the 2023 graduate programme, which is the ladder to transit from graduate to employee. I intend to be a senior App Developer at Aon as soon as possible, who can shoulder Aon's project independently.

Aditi Bhat

Why did you join Aon’s graduate programme?

Graduate programs typically involve challenging coursework, independent study, and critical analysis. These experiences would foster personal growth by improving my problem-solving abilities, expanding my intellectual horizons, and enhancing my communication and presentation skills. When contacted Aon graduate from different years, each feedback pointed to the same.

What did you enjoy most about the Aon graduate programme?

Aon Graduate Programme is a great place for building connections and networks early in one’s career. A visit to London and Aon London office was the cherry on top. This completed the international cultural exchange of the Launch Programme. The conversations with people from different solutions of the organization helped understand the organization in depth and appreciate Aon’s efforts even better.

How you would describe the culture at Aon?

If I had to describe the culture of Aon in two words, it would be ‘inclusive’ and ‘nurturing’. As a beginner in the insurance industry, Aon Colleagues have been nothing but welcoming. I have been encouraged to learn and my colleagues have been effectively introducing me to the insurance terms. I have been pushed to reach my full potential here on a regular basis making the work environment conducive for learning and growing.

What’s next for you?

Graduate Programme provided a learning series and tools (Personal Branding, Time Management, Financial Education and more). These tools are steppingstones to self-growth. I intend to make use of the learning imparted through this and apply it in my life and improve professionally here at Aon. In addition to this, I intent learn the hard and soft skills to be a better Data Analyst and by taking more responsibilities in order to be a vital clog in the company’s success.

Aishwarya Tamane

Why did you join Aon’s graduate programme?

It is a very comprehensive one-year graduate program that allows you to develop over all skills and personality development necessary for the future.

What did you enjoy most about the Aon graduate programme?

The trips to the headquarters of AON in London, United Kingdom during the graduate role, it helped us network with other grads around the globe and build a strong network across the company.

How you would describe the culture at Aon?

It is a very friendly and accommodative culture, I found myself surrounded with great colleagues who are ready to help you with each step as you move forward in your career.

What’s next for you?

Talking on new opportunities and projects and helping my team achieve exceptional results. Also mentoring the future grads in AON to help carve their path with AON’s early career graduate programme.

Grace Murphy

Why did you join Aon’s graduate programme?

My experience was unique in that I was hired before Ireland began its official Graduate Program. Therefore, I was the only graduate on the commercial risk floor making it a learning experience for myself and my supervisors. This opportunity provided a lot of one-on-one time between me and more senior colleagues, and allowed me the opportunity to be involved in many senior projects other graduate programmes may not have had the space for junior colleagues on.

What did you enjoy most about the Aon graduate programme?

I enjoyed the individual experience of it. Being the first graduate there was a learning curve among all involved in my experience at Aon. My year helped tailor the new graduate program Aon Ireland is kicking off this summer—specifically in the commercial risk space.

Everything from studying for my APA and CIP to networking events; I felt supported and encouraged by all my colleagues to make sure I was working to the best of my capabilities.

How you would describe the culture at Aon?

Aon is a very open environment. Senior colleagues make space to learn who you are and offer advice and teaching when possible. You do not just feel like a cog in a machine, but that you matter and everyone is rooting for your success at Aon.

What’s next for you?

I have recently changed positions from a graduate trainee to a business analyst working within the M&A department. I am excited to carry out my new role and support deals across the M&A field. Also, I am looking forward to being an asset to the new graduates if they have any questions or just need a friend in the office.

Michael Mc Cahill

Why did you join Aon’s graduate programme?

Before finishing college, I started to look for jobs in which I would be able to put the skills I learned as part of my degree into practice. I then came across an ad for the Aon graduate programme, and it immediately caught my eye. The fact that Aon had its own centre for innovation and analytics (ACIA) was massive in my decision to join the graduate programme. There are many opportunities within ACIA to explore different areas of the business such as data analytics, data science and data engineering. The ability to explore these avenues was very appealing to me and I saw this as an amazing opportunity to develop my skills as a graduate and to develop my career. Once I received the offer there was no looking back.

What did you enjoy most about the Aon graduate programme?

I have enjoyed all the things I have learned since joining Aon. I have developed skills in areas and applications that were unfamiliar to me as well as developing better domain knowledge along the way. Being part of the graduate programme has helped me to form connections with colleagues outside of ACIA that I wouldn’t normally work with.

Another thing I really enjoyed were the two graduate events in London. This gave us an opportunity to network with other Aon colleagues in EMEA. We visited the Aon offices in London as well which were very impressive.

How you would describe the culture at Aon?

The culture at Aon is the best thing about the company. Everyone who I’ve interacted with is more than willing to help. There have been lots of opportunities to try new things and to learn about different solution lines around Aon. There are also many opportunities to network with new colleagues in social events run by Aon like five-a-side, tag rugby and other events run by the sports and social club. Being part of such a collaborative environment is one of the best things about Aon

What’s next for you?

I’d like to increase my understanding of the work done within ACIA and try out projects with other teams. With Aon having offices in over 100 countries around the world I am hoping to move abroad and keep working with Aon in a different location. I am looking forward to what the future will hold for me during my time at Aon

Michael Roche

Why did you join Aon’s graduate programme?

I joined Aon’ graduate programme for many reasons. Firstly, the graduate programme provided me with the opportunity to qualify as an actuary. The programme provides very generous study and exam leave, allowing me to pursue my aspiration of becoming a Fellow of the IFOA while also gaining very beneficial practical experience in a supportive environment.

The people and colleagues were also a big factor. From day one, I felt welcomed and supported by a talented and friendly team. The great culture in my team has really fostered a sense of belonging, making it an ideal place to learn, grow and develop both personally and professionally.

Finally, Aon’s reputation as a global leader really resonated with me and my career aspirations and led me to apply for their graduate programme.

What did you enjoy most about the Aon graduate programme?

One of the most enjoyable aspects of the Aon graduate programme to me was the opportunity to connect and network with fellow graduates from all the solution lines across the UK and Ireland during the opening ceremony when we got to go to London. It was an immersive and enriching experience that fostered collaboration and allowed us to form meaningful relationships across different solution lines. It really drove home the ‘Delivering Aon United’ phrase that we are all too familiar with now. Engaging with like-minded individuals who shared a similar drive and ambition was really nice to experience. Also, the skill work training provided in the second week was highly beneficial.

How you would describe the culture at Aon?

I feel from the moment I joined Aon, everyone has been extremely warm and welcoming and happy to help and guide me if I ever have a problem. As a new graduate working my first job out of college, this was extremely beneficial. Aon is a great place for inclusivity, collaboration, innovation and growth especially in terms of progressing your career with lots of opportunities available for further learning.

What’s next for you?

Having just passed my first set of exams with the IFOA in April, I am currently studying for my next exams in September. I will continue studying hoping to qualify as a Fellow of the IFOA. I am also eager to continue learning from my colleagues on the job as this is an essential part of my career development and I am lucky to have such friendly and experienced colleagues.

Rory Fogarty

Why did you join Aon’s graduate programme?

I applied for the Aon graduate programme as it was a great opportunity to learn in one of the market leaders for professional services. The programme has enabled me to pursue a career as an Actuary and the exam support package for the Actuarial professional exams is very comprehensive. I felt that the graduate programme would be a great opportunity to meet all the new graduates across the different solution lines, which has proven to be the case.

What did you enjoy most about the Aon graduate programme?

The highlights were undoubtedly the trips to London to launch and finish the graduate programme. The launch was a two-week induction which was a fantastic opportunity to meet fellow Aon colleagues from Ireland and the UK and I gained great insight into what it would be like working for a global organisation such as Aon. We got to meet some senior Aon colleagues and even got to work for two days in Aon’s London Office! The closing ceremony was a fantastic opportunity to meet up with colleagues again and to find out how everyone was finding their jobs to date.

How you would describe the culture at Aon?

The culture is great, particularly within my team where everyone is very supportive, helpful, and friendly. Everyone I have met has been eager to make me feel welcome and part of the Aon community. There are great opportunities to get involved and meet fellow colleagues within Aon either through day-to-day work or through events organised by the sports and social committee.

What’s next for you?

I have completed and passed my first Actuarial exam post college but in terms of what’s next…To continue to study for the Actuarial exams (the fun never stops) and to continue to develop and learn within my team. When new graduates join our team, I will be involved in helping them settle into their roles and passing on the knowledge I have gained in the past year.

Vishal Ruhil

Why did you join Aon’s graduate programme?

I heard about the programme from the previous graduates and got to know that it’s a great opportunity if you want to learn in the data analytics field. Also, it gives you the exposure to work with different tools.

What did you enjoy most about the Aon graduate programme?

The networking events that the company offers in which you get to talk to people from various background and skillsets. Also, the London trip was a fantastic way to know more about Aon United and get to meet people from all over UK and EMEA.

How you would describe the culture at Aon?

The culture at Aon is amazing, the company really focus on the work life balance of the employees. There are social events and parties organised by the company, also I am doing a pat time masters in data analytics and Aon paid for the fees for the masters, so Aon gives you so much opportunities for you to learn.

What’s next for you?

Getting more certifications which can be helpful for my team and myself to grow in the future.