Dea Rusly
Assistant Manager,
Natural Resources, Indonesia
dea.rusly@charlestaylor.com
Having joined Charles Taylor in 2020, Dea Rusly is currently an Assistant Manager in the Natural Resources adjusting team in Indonesia.
Why did you join Charles Taylor?
It was a fortunate coincidence. After returning to Indonesia from Australia, where I completed my tertiary studies and gained valuable work experience, the pandemic made job hunting particularly challenging. When Charles Taylor Indonesia offered me a position as an English Adviser for the Marine Cargo team, I jumped at the opportunity without hesitation. Within just two months in that role, my Managing Director recognized my background in chemical and materials engineering and encouraged me to explore a career as a loss adjuster. I embraced the challenge and am pleased to say that I haven’t looked back since!
What does your job entail on a day-to-day basis?
My daily responsibilities involve a mix of onsite inspections at various locations across Indonesia and effective communication with Insurers, Brokers, and Insureds to ensure everyone is aligned on the progress of claims. In addition to providing updates through written reports and emails, I engage directly with clients, either in person or via Teams calls and virtual conferences, to address their questions and concerns. I also conduct thorough desktop reviews and prepare adjustment spreadsheets to support the claims process. This multifaceted approach ensures that all stakeholders are informed and that claims are handled efficiently.
What is your favourite thing about working for Charles Taylor?
My favourite aspect of working at Charles Taylor is the collaborative and supportive environment. The team is filled with talented professionals who are not only experts in their fields but also genuinely invested in each other's growth. This culture of collaboration fosters continuous learning and allows me to take on new challenges, enhancing my skills and expertise. Additionally, the diverse range of projects keeps my work exciting and fulfilling, making each day a new opportunity for growth.
Which claims have you worked on that have been particularly memorable?
I was fortunate to assist Stephen Thorpe, now the Global Head of Natural Resources at Charles Taylor, on a significant claim involving a major refinery fire loss during my first year as an adjuster. This case marked my first exposure to a large-scale loss and required collaboration with a diverse range of stakeholders, including forensic consultants, academics, experts, and government bodies. It was an invaluable learning experience that taught me the importance of managing expectations and ensuring clear communication among all parties involved.
What advice would you give to someone starting their career in insurance?
To remain curious and open to learning. The industry is constantly evolving, so staying informed about trends and developments is crucial. Seek out mentorship opportunities and don’t hesitate to ask questions—building relationships with experienced professionals can provide invaluable insights. Additionally, embrace challenges and be willing to step outside your comfort zone, as this is often where the most growth occurs.
What do you like to do when you’re not at work?
I enjoy spending my free time outdoors and staying active. Over the past year, I’ve developed a passion for running, but I also love practicing yoga, swimming, hiking, and relaxing at the beach. Additionally, I enjoy experimenting in the kitchen by trying out new recipes.
Where is your favourite holiday destination?
My favourite holiday destination is Maratua Island, Indonesia. Its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life create a paradise for relaxation and adventure.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
I would tell my younger self to embrace every opportunity for growth and learning, even if it feels uncomfortable at first. To not be afraid to take risks and step outside the comfort zone—some of the best experiences come from challenges. I’d also emphasize the importance of building strong relationships and networking, as these connections can open doors and provide valuable support throughout my career journey.
Mariana Martinez
Adjuster, Natural Resources,
Latin America
mariana.martinez@charlestaylor.com
I'm an Adjuster working on Natural Resources claims, primarily in Latin America. I joined the Charles Taylor office in the Mexico office in 2022, right after the pandemic.
Why did you join Charles Taylor?
I studied mechanical engineering at college and a fellow student had joined Charles Taylor. They introduced me to the management at Charles Taylor and I was offered a role in the Marine Adjusting Team. I liked the idea of exploring a different side of the industry and the challenges it might bring. I ended up joining the Natural Resources Team and have since participated in a lot of interesting and challenging projects.
What does your job entail on a day-to-day basis?
The majority of my time is spent analysing records and documentation depending on the case I am working on, calculating costs estimates, and writing reports. Performing surveys is also a very important part of the adjusting process. As I have developed in my role, I have more and more direct client contact which is part of the job I really enjoy.
What is your favourite thing about working for Charles Taylor?
What I like the most is getting involved in many different types of industries and technologies. Each new claim I work on allows me to learn a lot of new things from so many different fields of engineering and insurance. I also feel that the people I get to work with plays a huge part in my working experience, everybody, both at Charles Taylor and in our market, is very kind and cooperative.
What advice would you give to someone starting their career in insurance?
To get involved in everything. There is no college major for being an adjuster, so everything has to be learned through experience. So, the more claims you participate in, the more you´ll learn how to handle yours on your own. Also, don´t be afraid to ask for help and rely on your team.
What do you like to do when you’re not at work?
I don´t really get to do it much in the city, but I enjoy outdoor activities, like hiking, camping, or swimming. Maybe even just a nice picnic at a park. I also like watching documentaries and reading. We have many overseas visitors to our office in Mexico City and I enjoy showing them the history and culture of this amazing city.
Do you have any special or unusual skills?
I'm apparently good at working with small pieces. My mother and sister always ask me to repair their jewellery or thread the needles. I´m also good at detangling things. I enjoy languages and am fluent in English and German as well as my mother-tongue, Spanish.
Where is your favourite holiday destination?
Anywhere I get to spend time in nature, like the beach. But I also like visiting places with a vast cultural heritage and visiting its museums or old buildings.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
To be bolder and take more chances. I am aware that I missed a lot of opportunities because I was too shy to step up and have realized how many more things I get to do and experience now that I have decided to be more outgoing.
