DistriRisk Ltd. is a proud member of the Association of Insurance Intermediaries of Serbia. We believe that by working together, sharing knowledge, and continuously improving professional standards, we contribute to the development of the insurance market while ensuring better protection of our clients’ interests.

The interview with Marija Kujović Stanimirović, published on the Association’s LinkedIn page, provides an opportunity to highlight the importance of the insurance brokerage profession, emphasize the value of professional advice, and demonstrate that clients’ trust is built through expertise, responsibility, and long-term partnership.

Below, we are pleased to present the interview in its entirety.

The insurance profession is often viewed from the outside. This time, we explore it from within through the experiences of those who live it every day. Today, we speak with Marija Kujović Stanimirović, Director and Partner at DistriRisk Ltd.

Your role combines strategic leadership, client advisory, and team management. What is the most demanding part of your work that often goes unnoticed?

At the beginning of my journey, my work often felt like a “one-person show.” After many years in large organizations, holding senior positions in finance and investments, I entered a business where I personally handled a significant share of day-to-day operations.

Over time, with the support of my partners and colleagues at DistriRisk, operational responsibilities became a true team effort. This allowed me to focus on where I can create the greatest value today developing strategy, leading the company, working closely with clients, and providing professional risk analysis.

Although I remain deeply involved in all aspects of our business, I now approach them from a broader strategic perspective. My goal is to ensure that our clients receive not only timely professional advice but also the confidence that every insurance process protecting their interests is managed with responsibility and care.

As the key link between clients and insurance companies, where do you see your greatest responsibility, and what is the real value you bring?

The greatest responsibility in the relationship between clients and insurers is building trust. Trust is never automatic it is earned through every conversation, every recommendation, and every decision we make.

The value we provide as insurance brokers lies in representing our clients’ interests. We translate complex insurance terms and conditions into clear, practical solutions, enabling clients to make informed decisions with confidence.

For most people, insurance can seem complicated simply because they are not exposed to it on a daily basis. However, when clients know they have a reliable partner who responds promptly, provides expert guidance, and truly understands their situation, insurance becomes far more than a contractual obligation it becomes genuine support when risks materialize and losses occur.

Insurance is often perceived as a highly structured industry. As a woman in this profession, how does your perspective influence your relationships with clients?

Although insurance is often seen as a highly formal industry, I believe that women bring a distinctive perspective to it.

My approach is shaped by paying close attention to details that extend beyond standard business processes. Equally important is understanding how clients think, what concerns they may have, and what they truly expect from us.

This perspective helps transform professional relationships into long-term partnerships built on trust, understanding, and mutual respect.

Did you consciously choose a career in insurance, or did your professional path naturally lead you into this field? What continues to motivate you today?

My transition into insurance happened quite naturally, although it was not something I had originally planned. Throughout many years in finance, insurance was already an integral part of my professional responsibilities, particularly when structuring transactions and managing business risks.

What has kept me passionate about this profession is its constant evolution and the diversity of challenges it offers. Working with clients across various industries allows me to continuously expand my knowledge and gain valuable insights into different business models.

At the same time, I believe the Serbian insurance market will continue to develop by embracing European trends, introducing innovative products, and adopting more advanced insurance solutions.

Above all, what motivates me most is working with people and knowing that my expertise contributes to their security, stability, and long-term success.

What advice would you give to someone just starting a career in the insurance industry something that cannot be learned from textbooks?

My advice would be that knowledge is essential, but professional integrity is even more important.

Listen carefully to your clients, understand their needs, and never offer quick solutions simply for the sake of closing a deal.

This profession requires patience, consistency, and the ability to anticipate challenges before they arise.

Equally important is developing strong interpersonal skills and building lasting relationships with clients, insurance companies, colleagues, and business partners. These relationships often become one of the most valuable foundations for long-term professional success.