Interview with Antonios Vyrgiotis

Antonios Vyrgiotis, Director and Senior Account Executive, sits down to chat with the Claims Review editor, as part of this regular interview series in which we get to know ITIC’s claims handlers. Antonios discusses the realities of managing complex claims alongside wider responsibilities, reflecting on memorable cases and key career lessons. Outside of work, he provides an insight into his hobbies and interests.

How do you balance claims handling with your other roles and responsibilities?

Whereas we know when renewal dates are due, claims can be reported at any time and with varying levels of urgency. Much like buses come in threes, new claims notifications also tend to come in batches. Prioritising is an art, but we always have the safety net of our dedicated claims team when needed.

What is the biggest challenge when it comes to claims?

It always is the first step of agreeing with members the likely apportionment of liability and therefore our chances of success and the strategy going forward. Once we are aligned, executing the plan is rewarding.

What is the most memorable claim you have handled?

It has to be a ship arrest under our rule 10, debt collection cover. We were fortunate with the jurisdiction, so we were able to recover the entire debt plus all legal fees incurred. Members being unpaid for their hard work on the basis the debtor believes they can just get away with it is one of the most irksome things we see.

What is your favourite part of dealing with a claim?

Celebrating a resounding victory with members and lawyers. Few roles in the industry offer such a definitive moment to celebrate the effort which has gone into a matter.

What’s the most useful thing someone has taught you in your career?

Do not assume that someone knows more than you. Relying on a counterparty on the basis they are a large multinational or someone more senior on the basis they should know better than you due to experience without doing your own checks or at the very least critically evaluating the advice received may save time on the spot but is the source of many an error.

If you could name a ship, what would you call it and why?

Ship names are formulaic. They tend to be named after cities, oceans, family members, historic figures or most commonly, virtues. This makes sense as conventional names inspire confidence in counterparties and crew, but were these not concerns I would just pick band and song names I like such as Polaris.

What are your hobbies?

Electric guitar and video games. Exposure to art and travel are necessary for all, so not really hobbies.

What is the last book you read or music you downloaded?

The last book I read was ‘This Way Up: When Maps Go Wrong (and Why it Matters)’.

What is your favourite food?

Sushi or just a grilled fish with salt only. Good ingredients with the cook doing as little as possible to them is unbeatable, as much as I can appreciate technique.

What is your favourite saying?

May you live in interesting times.