Ahead of the Clare Business Excellence Awards 2025, The Clare Echo’s editor, Stuart Holly, speaks to Michael Henchy from Campion Insurance.
Name and position: General Manager.
Age: 53.
Lives: Sixmilebridge.
Family: Married to Olivia. Three children; Ella (19), Heather (17) and James (14)
Pets: Labradoodle, name: Peggy.
Favourite thing about Clare: The coast.
Least favourite thing about Clare: The rain.
One thing you would change about Clare: The Climate, I’d like some more sunshine.
When you were smaller, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A mechanic.
Tell us about your career progression to date?
My father was an insurance broker, and I ended up getting work experience when I was in UL with an insurance company in Dublin, and I progressed. I came back down after a couple of years and worked in my dad’s business. I always wanted to run my own business, and I did that for 25 years plus years, after taking over the business from my dad.
What’s the most enjoyable aspect of what you do?
Seeing customers getting their claims dealt with.
What motivates you?
Seeing a job well done, seeing a business grow and seeing the people working in that business growing in their careers. This allows us to give our clients good service, value and peace of mind that’s what motivates me.
What advice do you have for your 15-year-old self?
Travel.
If you weren’t in this job, what do you think you’d be doing now?
Something outdoors.
What’s the greatest life or career achievement to date?
My family
Who or what is the biggest influence on your life?
My dad. We just got on well together, and he always gave me good advice. You know, helped me. I would also have to acknowledge the role my mother played too.
What’s the life dream now?
Get my kids educated and plan for retirement so I can travel.
How do you switch off?
Go to Lahinch and watch the kids play sports.
What are you at your happiest?
When I am by the seaside on a sunny day.
Do you have any hidden talents?
No.
What might we be surprised to know about you?
Nothing. I’m very boring.
Is there anything else you would like to share
I just want to say thank you to the people of Ennis and Clare for supporting Campion Insurances as we’re growing it, thanks to all our staff as well.
