Joe Akrigg

An effective Underwriter, with over 16 years' financial services experience working in a fast-paced contact centre environment. Proven to be highly proficient in working solo or within a team setting, I regularly support colleagues with complex cases and provide training, coaching, and guidance based on experience and strong judgement. Skilled in handling sensitive cases involving vulnerable customers as well as both perpetrators and victims of impersonation while adhering to FCA guidelines.

Working to strict deadlines and delivering outcomes in a timely fashion. Recognised for strong critical thinking, analytical ability, and collaborative approaches with different departments in high-pressured and multi-tasking environments, where security, accuracy, and achieving the correct outcome are at the forefront of my everyday thinking.

Underwriter at Argos Financial Services (2015-10 – Present)

Review and assess store card applications in line with company policies and regulatory requirements. Make balanced credit decisions using available data, checks, and professional judgement.

• Review and assess store card applications in line with company policies and regulatory requirements
• Make balanced credit decisions using available data, checks, and professional judgement
• Identify potential risks and apply appropriate controls to help minimise exposure to the business
• Investigate complex or borderline cases to reach fair and consistent outcomes
• Regularly support colleagues by sharing knowledge and providing guidance on underwriting decisions
• Designated Underwriter for formulating and rolling out detailed training plans to newly recruited Underwriters, as well as coaching existing colleagues through new processes and procedures
• Maintain high levels of accuracy in a fast-paced, FCA-regulated environment
• Investigate impersonation cases, assessing risk indicators and making informed decisions to protect both victims and the business
• Performed PEP and sanctions screening before the establishment of a dedicated financial crime team, supporting compliant decision-making and risk awareness

Customer Service Advisor at Argos Financial Services (2010-10 – 2015-10)

Delivered customer support for financial products while meeting compliance standards.

• Delivered customer support for financial products while meeting compliance standards
• Resolved queries efficiently and professionally
• Developed strong communication, problem-solving, and customer judgement skills

GCSE – Shorefields Comprehensive (1990 – 1995)