From Claims Manager to Executive Officer: Meet Naamon Eurell
Fifteen years in one organisation is rare. Fifteen years with the same energy and drive? Even rarer.
But that’s exactly what you get with Naamon Eurell, Executive Officer at Statewide Mutual.
In this Q&A, he opens up about what’s changed, what’s stayed the same, and what keeps him showing up with purpose – year after year.
Q: To start, can you share with us how you first got involved with Statewide?
Believe it or not, it all started with a conversation over a beer.
I’d been working in liability claims at QBE after leaving law, when my former boss mentioned an opportunity at JLT. At the time, I thought it might be a step up – and it was. So I interviewed with the leadership team and was offered the job that same day.
Within two weeks, I’d joined Statewide as a Claims Manager.
Q: And what was that transition like?
Fast. When I arrived, they’d just restructured the team. So I walked in to discover I was managing a team of four – with one already on their notice period.
There was no handover or formal induction. They just showed me my desk and said, ‘Get into it.’
Q: That sounds full on. What kept you going through that early chaos?
Autonomy and purpose. I had a clear portfolio, lots of room to make decisions and real ownership over the work. I liked that I wasn’t micromanaged. I was trusted.
And over time, that trust grew into bigger roles and responsibilities.
Q: So tell us, how did your role evolve over time?
Well, after a short stint as Claims Manager, I spent another two years as an Account Manager before stepping into the Executive Officer role.
I often tell people – this job I’m doing now? I didn’t even know it existed when I first started.
What I can say with confidence is that my time with Statewide and JLT has been life-changing. I went from a run-of-the-mill job to a role that gives me a real sense of purpose. This environment is genuinely empowering and deeply rewarding.
I’ve now been in the same role for 11 years. And while the title hasn’t changed, what I do day to day is entirely different from when I started.
These days, I’m more of a mentor, a technical consultant, and a voice for our clients and team.
Q: Speaking of mentoring, what’s that like for you?
It’s one of the most rewarding parts of the job.
Many of our staff have been working with me for more than four years. And watching them grow into their roles, develop their strengths and find their own way of working is incredibly satisfying. I see my job now as helping them prepare for leadership themselves.
Q: Reflecting on your 15-year career with Statewide, what were some highlights?
There were plenty. Watching us grow from three schemes to seven was a biggie.
Seeing our annual conference evolve – not just in size, but in quality and impact – has also been hugely rewarding.
But the real highlight? The people. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside some of the best. Board members. Business partners. And the underwriters who’ve helped shape what Statewide is today.
Q: And the most challenging?
Look, any time one of our members even considers leaving, our team really takes it personally. Because we always strive to do the very best by our members.
But one of the biggest challenges to our business, I’d say, was the Class Action. Although, in some ways, it was also a highlight.
The class action shook morale and tested our resilience. Everyone on our team was affected. Everyone felt the slur on their character. But it also reinforced our commitment to each other and to our members.
So we stood firm. We refused to settle. And we were vindicated. That felt like a real test of our integrity, and we passed.
Q: What do you love most about your job today?
Two things: solving problems and working with people.
I’m an extrovert, so I really enjoy meeting and talking to people. But more than that, I thrive on being able to help our members in their most difficult moments.
I also love seeing our staff succeed. Watching them grow into confident professionals is a joy.
Q: Outside of work, what keeps you grounded?
My two boys, aged 8 and 12. Being their dad is the greatest privilege of my life. They’re wildly different, and I love finding the unique ways to connect with each of them.
Q: Looking ahead, where do you see yourself – and Statewide – in five years?
I’d love to see Statewide still delivering stability and personalised service to our members – backed by a team that’s passionate, committed and ready to drive the next chapter.
As for me personally… 15 years in, I think I’m fairly institutionalised. I’d still love to be here, doing what I love, supporting our members and mentoring our staff. I’d be happy with that.
Q: Any final thoughts for members or other councils?
If you’re curious about how the Mutual works, reach out anytime.
I’m never too busy or too high-up-there to chat. In fact, the more interaction I have, the happier I am in my job. It’s that connection that makes this work so meaningful, after all.
Thanks to Naamon for sharing his journey and insights with us.
If you’d like to learn more about the Mutual or ask questions about how we can support your council, get in touch today.