Our Claims and Assessing Leaders

2 October 2024

Dallas Telford
Head of Claims Delivery, Assessing & Auctions

My journey with Star began in 2011 when I moved from a mechanical role in the motorcycle industry to become an Assessor. Within a month, my wife and I packed up our four kids and moved from Mount Maunganui to Auckland, where I got stuck in my new role establishing a functional in-house assessing department while learning the tools of the insurance industry.

Eventually, the Bay of Plenty lifestyle called us back and I was fortunate to be able to take my role with me, setting up a branch in the Mount and building a team there.

My sons and I share a love of motocross riding, although, after a couple of major injuries, I’ve finally taken the hint that my 40-something-year-old body doesn’t quite bounce as it used to, so the motocross boots aren’t pulled on as often as they were. I love spending my downtime with my family and going into nature every weekend,  which helps me find a healthy work/life balance.

My family is thriving and my kids are all growing into independent, kind and loyal people, which is a source of great pride to me and my wife.As the company has grown over the years, I have received amazing personal development support from Star to gain a Loss Adjusting Diploma. I enjoy being able to support my team to be the best they can be on all levels and strive to be a good role model in this regard.

Areta Cameron
Head of Claims Delivery

My insurance career started at IAG in 2016. I lodged claims for both State and AMI, and not long after, I moved on to case management. From there, I then moved to the brokering side, where I started handling claims for Rothbury insurance brokers. This is where my interest really sparked, and I decided to delve into other areas of the insurance world and become a broker. I quickly realised this wasn’t my cup of tea, so I moved back into claims.

Fast forward to today, I am now the Head of Claims for Star Insure. What I like about the insurance industry is that you never know what to expect on a daily basis. No matter how long you have been in the industry, you still get surprised by what comes across your desk.

I also have a busy home life with a 3-year-old daughter and a 1-year old son who keep me on my toes. When/if I find the time, I am quite partial to a cheeky wine and a good book.