What began as an internship during his undergraduate studies has developed into an international career for marine insurance broker, Alex Yallouridis. “I specialise in hull machinery, so dealing with the actual physical damage to vessels and also covering them for the perils of war. I work with various clients around the world including ship owners, charterers and exporters,” he explains. “If you’re a ship owner and you have no idea what coverage you need or enhancements that indemnify you in a situation where you would have a loss on one or multiple of those vessels, you’d approach a broker like myself.”
Alex’s role at Miller Insurance Services in London is particularly significant given today’s geopolitical landscape. “War-related coverage now dominates our workload because of the sheer volume,” he says. “Ships traversing high-risk zones like the Gulf, or the Red and Black Seas are required to pay additional premiums as these vessels need protection if they’re attacked,” he adds. “This has unfortunately become increasingly common.”
His team has recently managed cases involving sunken vessels and ships struck multiple times by missiles or unmanned surface vessels. “We’re there to support shipowners in the worst-case scenarios, ensuring they’re indemnified for these immense risks,” he says.
In addition to war risk, Alex works on covering day-to-day damages for clients trading globally, spanning the Mediterranean, Americas, Asia, and the Arabian Gulf. “I don’t directly provide the insurance, but as an intermediary, I match my clients’ needs with the best possible terms, balancing cost and comprehensive coverage,” he explains. “It’s about building trust and delivering value.”
Making the right impression
Having first entered the industry while completing his undergraduate degree in 2021 (Bachelor of Business from UTS), Alex started working as an intern at Gallagher in Australia as a Marine Insurance Broker. “After the internship concluded, I began a full-time role with them,” he adds.
During this time, Alex joined the University of Sydney to complete the Master of International Business (MIB) program while working. “I was doing full-time university and full-time work – so very late hours, which was a challenge,” he says. “Pushing your lectures to that 6-10pm after-hours slot was hard, but I gave the University full disclosure of my situation, and they were extremely supportive – I’m not sure you’d get that elsewhere.”
His MIB studies included coursework in international trade, cross-border management, and global finance, equipping him with the tools to navigate a highly interconnected industry.
After graduating with Distinction, Alex came to London in 2022 where he met his current boss. “We were out for dinner, and he asked where I wanted to be, and I said: ‘I want to be in London and working for you.’”
It’s tough for young professionals to secure senior roles quickly, so I knew I needed to stand out.
Alex Yallouridis
Master of International Business (2023) graduate
“It’s tough for young professionals to secure senior roles quickly, so I knew I needed to stand out.”Alex Yallouridis
Master of International Business (2023) graduate
A hub of activity
Born in Greece and raised in Australia since the age of 11, Alex always envisioned a career in the UK or Europe. “The London market is the hub for marine insurance,” he explains. “Coming here with my MIB credentials helped me stand out in this competitive industry.”
His choice to pursue a master’s degree early in his career was strategic. “It’s tough for young professionals to secure senior roles quickly, so I knew I needed to stand out,” he adds. “An international postgraduate degree aligned with my goals perfectly.”
The MIB program broadened his perspective and sharpened his skills in international trade, project management, and cross-cultural communication. “It equipped me with invaluable tools for collaborating with clients and stakeholders worldwide, teaching me how to navigate diverse approaches and cultural nuances.”
The decision to study at the University of Sydney was driven by its reputation and strong alumni network. “The program’s international focus and academic rigour made it the perfect fit for my career aspirations.”
A love of learning
As Alex looks to continue his career abroad, he still engages with his former teachers at the University of Sydney and has the desire to continue learning and studying when the time is right. “I’m still in contact with several of the teaching staff and coordinators of the course, and they’ve even invited me back several times as a guest speaker,” he says. “I really do enjoy education in general and love learning new things, so being able to share this knowledge is something I’d love to continue to do.”
Alex is also exploring certifications in risk management and maritime law, further enhancing his expertise in marine insurance. “This industry is constantly evolving, and staying ahead means committing to lifelong learning,” he notes.
