In this interview, Simon Hayes, the founder of NextGen Communications, shares insights into the insurance and insurtech PR landscape. With about 30 years of industry experience, Simon started NextGen Communications eight years ago when he identified that traditional PR firms were more focused on insurers and brokers, leaving a gap in the insurtech space, which NextGen aimed to fill. This niche focus has allowed them to become a go-to agency for insurtech clients.

Simon highlights that effective PR strategies for building a brand presence involve a blend of press coverage, thought leadership, social media (particularly LinkedIn), events, and award entries, emphasizing that visibility is crucial for success.

He suggests that insurtechs can differentiate themselves in the competitive market by leveraging the personalities and expertise of their senior leaders, making the brand relatable and credible. Addressing funding challenges, Simon acknowledges a recent decline in funding but notes early signs of recovery, especially driven by AI interest, with a shift in investor focus toward profitability.

He also identified key trends like digital transformation, data analytics, and AI as the most significant innovations shaping the insurance industry, confirming that insurtech is here to stay and will continue to drive substantial change.