Coffee Chat with Claire Chummun, Driverly Investor

Hi Claire! Tell us a little about yourself your background please. 

I started my career in sales and marketing roles across the airline and FMCG industry. Following my MBA I worked in change management for over 8 years within health insurance. I decided to take a career break after having my second child.  

Congratulations for joining the Driverly journey. Why did you decide to invest in Driverly? 

I know Armin from our MBA days at Alliance Manchester Business School, so when he approached with an investment opportunity I was keen to find out more.  The team and their background was a key driver for me. The fact that they have already developed a number of strong relationships with major players in the industry alongside unique data sets made Driverly an exciting proposition. It’s also impressive the recognition the business has achieved to date including ranking in Insurtech Insight’s list of top 15 global telematics pioneers redefining insurance, as well as 29th in Insurtech’s 50 list of UK’s most innovative insurance technology creators for 2024. I was also attracted by the unique tax benefits and potential for growth.  

It’s widely acknowledged that the tech startup sector has a long path ahead on the gender equality road. How can we accelerate gender equality in this sector? 

Recognition of inequality is key. As a mum to two girls I feel it’s my responsibility to act as a role model to demonstrate anything is achievable regardless of gender. It is crucial for businesses to foster a culture that is supportive of women throughout their careers, for example by walking the talk by implementing fair parental leave policies for both genders and flexible working. It’s great to see that we share these values with the Driverly leadership team. 

You are one of the first female investors in Driverly. Why is it important to have a balanced team of investors and advisors? 

Different outlooks and experiences are key to help minimise any blind spots. Having worked across multidisciplinary and cross functional teams in the past, that diverse mix of skills and experiences enables well rounded decision making versus a single view approach. Driverly have built a strong balanced team which I know sets them up for success.