A business built on ambition, expertise and shared values
Growth isn’t about chasing volume – it’s about recognising and choosing the right opportunities. At the Edinburgh Agency of NFU Mutual, Scott Carruthers and his business partner Doug Schreiber are doing exactly that. With a strong foundation in commercial insurance, they’re now looking to deepen their reach in specialist sectors, strengthen client relationships, and shape the future of the agency around smart, sustainable ambition.
Doug has been part of the NFU Mutual Agency Network since 2015 and became an Agent in 2020. Today, he co-leads a business that supports a wide range of clients – from bespoke manufacturers and motor trade operators to property owners and rural enterprises. But as the agency looks ahead, Doug has clear ideas about where their focus lies.
“We’ve built strong client relationships in property and motor trade, but we’re seeing real potential in other industries too – particularly with businesses that don’t always fit the standard mould,” Doug explains. “These are sectors with growth, complexity and a strong local presence – the kind of mix that really suits our model.”
Rather than expanding rapidly, the team is taking a selective, strategic approach. Doug is intentional about choosing clients they can build long-term partnerships with – not just chasing the biggest premiums.
“We’re thoughtful about who we work with. If we can’t add value, or if the relationship doesn’t feel like a good fit, we’ll walk away. That’s one of the advantages of the self-employed agency model. You have the freedom to build a business in line with your values.”
Looking five years ahead, Scott envisions an agency that’s deeper, not just bigger – with greater in-house specialisation, strengthened staff development, and a growing presence in niche markets that value tailored support.
“I see us building out our capabilities in sectors like manufacturing, especially woodwork and bespoke joinery, where understanding risk is key. And we’ll continue to push on in motor trade, which remains a strong area for us.”
That growth mindset also applies internally. Recruitment, training, and succession planning are firmly on the agenda – ensuring the agency remains robust, forward-thinking, and attractive to the next generation of commercial professionals.
“Running an agency isn’t just about client relationships. It’s about team culture, resilience, and having a clear sense of where you’re going. The NFU Mutual Agency model gives us the autonomy to shape that path ourselves.”
As ever, personal service remains at the heart of the agency’s strategy. Both Scott and Doug are confident that the ability to pick up the phone, get a straight answer, and build a relationship still holds weight in a world of automation.
Scott says, “We’re in this for the long haul. That means growing smarter, not just bigger – and building a business that lasts.”
More agencies across Scotland are opening their doors to new self-employed Agents. Curious about the financial potential find out more HERE
For a confidential enquiry into a self-employed Agent role within the NFU Mutual Agency Network, please contact Stephan Papantoniou on 07890 395430 or Stephan_Papantoniou@nfumutual.co.uk.
Alternatively, you can apply for our current opportunities in Scotland via the website HERE
