Karen Wallis

Underwriter and Team Leader

Karen has been part of the GJW Direct team since 2012, bringing decades of experience in marine insurance to her role as Underwriter and Team Leader. Having started her career in the marine insurance industry in the early 1990s, Karen transitioned into the leisure marine sector where she now specialises in underwriting private and pleasure craft.

Her hands-on experience with a wide range of watercraft—including yachts, motor cruisers, speedboats, RIBs, jet skis, kayaks, and paddleboards—gives her a greater understanding of customer needs. Karen is passionate about risk analysis and product development, and she thrives on balancing customer expectations with competitive, efficient insurance solutions.

Living on the South Coast, Karen is deeply connected to the boating community and regularly attends industry events, including the Southampton Boat Show and British Marine’s Women in Marine gatherings. She continues to expand her practical knowledge through RYA qualifications, having completed Dinghy Sailing Levels 1 & 2, Powerboat Level 2, and Day Skipper Theory.