One year on: An interview with Aspray franchisee George Cusack
Published: 06 May 2020
George Cusack became a project management franchisee with Aspray in November 2018. After a long and successful career in the motor trade working in various management roles, George wanted to work for himself.
A year later we caught up with George to see how he found the Aspray recruitment process, what he has learned and his plans for the future.
Q. How did you find the recruitment process with Aspray?
A: The application process was extremely thorough and well thought out. It was a two-way process whereby they took the time to get to know all about my financial and non-financial motivators.
I was supported with completing a guided due diligence project and business plan specific to my chosen territory, this was invaluable in providing me with a good insight into not only the business, but also the insurance sector in which I would be operating.
Q. What was the first property damage insurance claim that you managed?
A: The first claim I project managed was a fire claim for £35,000. The fire had started in one flat and had spread to the adjoining flat and the staircase.
I felt extremely satisfied once the reinstatement works were completed and, like anything you do for the first time, it was a learning curve.
Q. What has surprised you so far?
A: There have been occasions where some insurance companies’ representatives have been difficult to deal with at times, although others have been helpful and friendly.
Q. What have you found hardest so far?
A: Working with contractors who you can rely upon to complete quality repairs is the key to success. In the early months, this was the biggest challenge I had to overcome.
Q. What do you enjoy most about the project management role?
A: I love the fact that every day is varied. I get to help people at what can often be an emotional and stressful time. I find it personally rewarding to see the home or business owner’s response and relief once the repairs are completed.
Q. If you could go back 12 months, would you make the same decision again?
A: I would definitely do it again!
Q. And finally, what are your plans for the future?
A: For me, it’s all about continuing to build a good team of contractors. As I continue to grow the business, the plan is to employ another person to support me with the day to day project management of my property damage claims.
Interested in following in George's footsteps? Find out more about becoming an Aspray franchisee here.
