After years in senior corporate roles across retail and logistics, Julia Fotherby was no stranger to leading teams, managing complex operations, and delivering results. But when she learned about the NFU Mutual Agency Network, she saw something different – the chance to run her own business, set her own priorities, and still have the backing of a trusted national brand.
Just twelve weeks into her new role as a self-employed Agent of the NFU Mutual Dingwall and Thurso Agency, she’s already clear on the difference it’s made – both professionally and personally.
A better balance
One of the biggest changes has been how she manages her time. Julia’s work now flexes around the things that matter most to her – from attending her child’s school assembly to taking part in local business events – without losing the drive and challenge she’s always enjoyed in her career. And, crucially, she’s been able to do it without the financial gamble that comes with launching a start-up – running her own business with the support of NFU Mutual.
While the freedom to set her own schedule is a big advantage, Julia is clear this isn’t a part-time role – it’s a full leadership position with responsibility for customers, colleagues, and results.
“You’re in control, but you’re accountable,” she says. “That’s what makes it so rewarding – you can grow the business in a way that reflects your values, build a team that shares your vision, and make a real difference in your community.”
Bringing skills to a new sector
Julia co-leads the agency in partnership with fellow Agent Jonathan Hogg, whose agricultural expertise complements her commercial and operational background. Together, they support a broad mix of customers – from family farms and growing hospitality businesses to homeowners and rural enterprises – providing tailored insurance and financial advice that helps them plan for the future with confidence.
Julia is proof that you don’t need an insurance background to succeed in the role. What matters most, she says, is transferable leadership skills, a willingness to learn, and a commitment to your community.
Variety with purpose
No two days look the same. One morning might start with a team meeting in the office, followed by a farm visit, then an afternoon catch-up with a client at a beachfront café.
“It’s the variety that makes it so rewarding,” she says. “You’re part of the local business community in a really tangible way.”
From hosting inheritance tax panel evenings to nominating local charities for funding, Julia’s work goes beyond business – it’s about building relationships and strengthening ties with the community her agency serves.
Why this model works – and why representation matters
Fewer than 20% of Scotland’s business leaders are women – and while Julia doesn’t define her role by gender, she knows that visibility matters. “If someone sees me and thinks, ‘I could do that too,’ that’s a bonus,” she says.
For her, the NFU Mutual agency model is powerful because it opens up leadership opportunities to people from all backgrounds. It offers the independence of running your own business with the security and support of an established brand – without the uncertainty of starting entirely from scratch.
“You also don’t need an insurance background,” Julia says. “You need drive, empathy, and the courage to lead. The rest you can learn. You set the strategy, you shape the culture, and you’re there for the customers when it matters most.”
Thinking about your own next steps?
Right now, one of the opportunities within the NFU Mutual Agency Network sits in the Dingwall and Thurso Agency, where Julia and Jonathan are looking for a new self-employed Agent to join their leadership team.
If you’re ready for a self-employed role, where you can lead with purpose, build something lasting and shape a life that fits around what matters most to you, this could be your opportunity.
Learn more HERE.
For a confidential enquiry into the self-employed Agent role at the Dingwall and Thurso Agency, contact Stephan Papantoniou on 07890 395430 or Stephan_Papantoniou@nfumutual.co.uk
Alternatively, apply for our current opportunities in Scotland via the website HERE.
