
A Day in the Life of Suneeta Padda: A Life Less Ordinary
My day starts early at 5.30 am by walking my dog, regardless of the weather. And I hit the gym with my daughter at 6.45 am, except on Sundays.
The rest of my day is a whirlwind of calls, work and business development and I’d say my life and career journey have been nothing short of a whirlwind too.
Born in Birmingham, my life took a significant turn when I moved to London after my parents arranged my marriage. I spent my entire 20s in this marriage, not working, and dedicated my time to raising my two wonderful children.
When I got divorced at 30, I embraced change and ventured into academia as a mature student. Pursuing a part-time business and marketing degree over five years was challenging. While I graduated with a 2:1 degree, my university experience was far from typical, devoid of the usual student life adventures.
Post-graduation, at 36, I faced the daunting task of finding a job. A single mum with no work experience, yet armed with a degree, I felt the weight of the world on my shoulders. Fortunately, my career in Regulation and Compliance began with a temp admin role at the newly formed FSA.
I spent nearly six years at the FSA, honing my skills and knowledge. As the demand for regulatory experts in insurance firms soared, I seized new opportunities, working at Marsh and then as the International Compliance Director at Willis. A subsequent headhunting led me to HSBC Insurance Brokers as the Head of Global Compliance. But life had another twist; following Marsh’s acquisition of HSBC Insurance Brokers, I moved to Amlin as the head of UK Compliance.
Tragedy struck when my ex-husband passed away suddenly. This event was a catalyst for change in my life, reminding me of life’s fragility. In July 2012, fuelled by a desire for something different, I established Padda Consulting. Over the past 11 years, we’ve built a strong brand and reputation, working with numerous insurers and intermediaries.
The initial four years were intense. I worked every single day, allowing myself only Christmas Day off, and sickness was never an option. Even now, taking time off is a struggle; my laptop is a constant companion, even on holidays and weekends. Thankfully, good friends have forced me to take breaks, reminding me of life’s other pleasures.
By 4 pm, it’s time for another walk with my dog, who never lets me forget his schedule! After attending to his needs, I’m back at my desk, working through emails and client
requests.
Dinner is around 7.30/8 pm, after which I attempt to unwind, though client needs often extend my workday.
My children are now in their 30s with families of their own – I’m a proud grandmother of three, and it’s this role that often makes me feel my age!
I cherish my time with my grandchildren especially on weekends, jokingly admitting I see my kids enough since they work with me! Family is my anchor, and I’ve learned the importance of creating memories, knowing well that work isn’t everything.
The journey hasn’t been easy. However, my passion for my business and a control freak nature with a hint of OCD kept me going. I’ve learned the importance of communication, realising that sharing challenges isn’t a sign of failure but a part of the growth process.
It has been a long, hard journey, but one I wouldn’t change for the world.