Closing a Chapter, Opening the World

On the 30th of May, I’ll be stepping away from something that’s been a defining part of my professional identity for many years — my role at UKGI Group.

As the very first employee, I’ve been part of the business since day one. Being employee #1 isn’t just a line on a timeline — it’s been a front-row seat to the growth of an idea into a thriving, impactful company. I’ve seen it evolve, shaped it in places, and been shaped by it in return.

There’s something very special about being part of a business from the start — building alongside passionate, driven people, solving real problems, and helping create something from the ground up. It’s been intense, rewarding, challenging, and above all, meaningful. I leave with enormous pride in what we’ve built together and huge appreciation for the people I’ve worked alongside.

I’m also deeply thankful for the insurance profession itself. Over the years, it has given me far more than a career — it’s been a source of personal growth, lifelong friendships, and invaluable professional development. The opportunities to learn, lead, and contribute to such a vital industry have shaped who I am today. I’m proud to be part of this community and grateful for everything it has offered me so far.

So why step away?

Because life has called us — quite literally — to the other side of the world.

My wife Clare and I, along with our three children, are setting off on a long-term round-the-world adventure we’ve dreamed about for years. We’re calling it WanderLearn — a journey to explore new cultures, embrace slow travel, and give our kids an education that goes far beyond the classroom. From Southeast Asia to Australasia and beyond, we’ll be chasing sunshine, stories, and connection.

This is more than a sabbatical. It’s a chance to reset, to be fully present with my family, and to see life from a fresh perspective. We’ll be worldschooling, working on creative projects, and making time for all the things we’ve long said we’d do “one day.”

Leaving a job you care deeply about — and the people who have made it such a rewarding and meaningful experience — is never easy. The work itself has been fulfilling, but it’s the relationships, the shared goals, the trust, and the camaraderie that I’ll carry with me most.

I’ll be watching with real interest as Adler Fairways and the wider UKGI Group continue to grow, evolve, and deliver on the vision we’ve all worked so hard to bring to life. I know there’s an exciting road ahead for the group — and it’s a great feeling to know that when I do return, I’ll have friends in the profession and a network I truly value.

As for what comes next? That part is unwritten. But I know I’ll return with a wider lens, new insights, and an even stronger sense of who I am and what I want to contribute. When the time comes to re-engage professionally, I’ll be ready — and excited to bring that fresh energy into whatever comes next.

In the meantime, if you’d like to follow our journey, we’ll be sharing our experiences across social media at WanderLearn. We hope to inspire other families to think differently about time, education, and adventure.

To everyone who’s been part of this chapter — thank you. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together. Here’s to the road ahead.

Andy Payne
Employee #1, UKGI Group
Next stop: WanderLearn – Worldschooling Dad & Family Adventurer
Future: To be continued…