Ketan Patel was born in Baroda, and moved to the UK in the 1960’s. Some of his younger life was spent living in Zambia, before permanently residing in the UK. He joined the insurance industry after a brief career in advertising. Now with over 25 years in insurance broking, he has quickly gained a high reputation amongst peers, colleagues and clients. He now have his own firm, Artemis Insurance Brokers Ltd, which has been running since 2010. They tap into a large proportion of the insurance spectrum, from the typical risks associated with corporate entities to some more specialist niche products.
1 Which place, or city or country do you most feel at home in? (50 words response)
I feel most at home in London as it just has so much to offer! Whether it be its history or culture, sheer variety of restaurants and entertainment, it caters for all. I have lived there most of my life to be fair.
2 What are your proudest achievements?
I studied Photography and was fortunate to photograph and work with well-known public life figures and celebrities in the entertainment industry. Also, several years on the Asian & English Commercial Radio networks as a presenter in the 90's. Other than that my two wonderful children and my proudest has to be becoming an independent, fully authorised and regulated Insurance Broker.
3 What inspires you?
When I started Insurance, I was self-taught and learnt the hard way and to never take no for an answer.
4 What has been biggest obstacle in your career?
Growing up in the 80's and being of an ethnic minority was a challenge working in the world of advertising. Leaving me with no choice but to seek a new career path. It was not easy then, let alone today, and it's all down to sheer hard work and having the support of family and friends.
5 Who has been the biggest influence on your career to date?
My father raised my sister and I, and worked all his life to give us as much opportunity as possible. My wife and close friends have guided and encouraged me to set up this business, which in today's firmly regulated world is never an easy thing to do.
6 What is the best aspect about your current role?
To be able to give guidance and advice to a wide variety of businesses and individuals who have no insurance knowledge.
7 And the worst?
Being overburdened with the woes of financial regulation. Whilst compliance is of course at the forefront of our business, it isn't exactly wrought with excitement... let's be honest!
8 What are your long term goals?
Since we started our business, it has grown steadily on pure recommendation through word of mouth. I'm always looking at opportunities to grow and prosper, whilst moving and adapting to an everchanging world.
9 If you were Prime Minister, what one aspect would you change?
The future of our planet, or at least to educate the world leaders in the same parallel as the seeds of change must be woven by their hand.
10 If you were marooned on a desert island, which historical figure would you like to spend your time with and why.
I have to say this would be Gandhi. He inspired India's independence and brought about significant change without the need for any violence. There's something to be said about always standing up for what and whomever you believe in.
