A word from Key Media
Paul Lucas Global Managing Editor Insurance Business
Award winners
What to expect on the night
2023 Sponsors
Authorised Representative Network of the Year
Hundreds of insurance industry professionals had a lot of fun at the recent annual Insurance Business Australia Awards. On 15 September 2023, in the splendour of the Fullerton Hotel, Martin Place, Sydney, the insurance industry’s finest were celebrated. Brokers, authorised representatives, insurers and underwriters enjoyed all the glamour and excitement of the sixth annual awards. The hard work of the industry’s best was recognised across 25 prestigious categories. The night included a cocktail reception, dinner banquet, awards presentation ceremony – and, of course, live entertainment throughout the evening. SongDivision provided live music throughout and inspired
Premium partner
Award sponsors
Official media
Organiser
Methodology
more
Commemorative Guide
Nominations A nationwide call for nominations was conducted from April to May 2023 using Insurance Business’s online channels. All nominations were submitted via the official Insurance Business Awards Australia online portal.
Confirmation of Excellence Awardees Once the research was completed, Excellence Awardees were selected in each category and notified via email. Excellence Awardees were also announced on Insurance Business’s website.
Excellence Awardee submission All Excellence Awardees were invited to complete official submission forms, which were forwarded to an independent judging panel. The submission form asks for details on how each Excellence Awardee fulfils the criteria in their award category. All information contained in the submissions remains entirely confidential unless otherwise marked and is not shared with any third parties other than the judges.
Awards ceremony The winners in each category were announced at the Insurance Business Awards gala dinner on Friday 15 September 2023 at the Fullerton Hotel Sydney. Winners were also published on the Insurance Business website.
Find out more
Best Customer Service from an Individual Office
Innovation Group Best Digital Strategy – Brokerage
Brokerage of the Year (1-5 Staff)
Brokerage of the Year (6-20 Staff)
Brokerage of the Year (20+ Staff)
Specialist Brokerage of the Year
QBE Broker of the Year – Authorised Representative
Broker of the Year (1-19 Staff)
Broker of the Year (20+ Staff)
Broker of the Year – Specialist
Young Gun of the Year – Independent (1-19 Staff)
Celebrating insurance industry excellence
And having fun doing it!
The team at Insurance Business Australia are extremely proud to have hosted the Insurance Business Awards for the sixth year in September 2023. Insurance Business Australia continues to be Australia’s leading media resource for the general insurance industry, delivering essential news, insights and analysis to you each week. The last year has been extremely challenging for businesses across Australia and the insurance industry – that’s why the work of brokers, claims teams and all other insurance professionals is so worthy of acknowledgement. As you all well know, the industry is facing serious challenges from natural catastrophes, affordability and availability issues, not to mention regulatory pressures and new technologies. The insurance profession has risen to the challenge of supporting its clients and communities through one of the most challenging periods in Australia’s corporate history. At the Insurance Business Awards, we brought Australian insurance professionals together for an evening of celebration. Every year, the judging panel is impressed by the quality of Excellence Awardee submissions, commenting on the complexity, professionalism, innovation and business acumen demonstrated by insurance professionals – and 2023 was no exception. The Insurance Business Awards represent the pinnacle of achievement at the individual broker level through to brokerages of all sizes, insurers and underwriting agencies. We want to thank the panel of judges who contributed their time and considerable knowledge to the judging process. With hundreds of high-calibre nominations from all over Australia, the competition was very strong. The winners represent the best of this elite group. Finally, we would like to thank all our sponsors whose generous support of these awards is greatly appreciated. Our thanks go out to the Underwriting Agencies Council, the AAMC, AXA XL, CHU Underwriting, Innovation Group, QBE, Wilbur and SongDivision.
AXA XL Young Gun of the Year – International
Australian General Insurer of the Year
Underwriting Agencies Council Australian Underwriting Agency of the Year
Best Digital Strategy – Insurer
Best Service Provider
General Insurer BDM of the Year
AAMC General Insurer Claims Team of the Year
singing from several insurance professionals – perhaps most memorable, a passionate but off-key version of John Farnham’s You’re the Voice. Comedian, radio and television presenter Merrick Watts hosted the evening with engaging wit and set the tone during his welcome speech: “This industry is not viewed as sexy enough,” said Watts, claiming he was referencing an ABC News report. “Looking around this group, I can honestly say that’s the first thing the ABC has got right in a while.” Sexy or not, in the current age of increasingly complex risks and challenges, the insurance industry is probably more important than ever before. Encouraging and celebrating the industry has become all the more vital. The Underwriting Agencies Council (UAC) was this year’s Awards Premium Partner. UAC sponsored two awards: the Underwriting Agency of the Year award and Underwriting Agency BDM of the Year. “It's very important that we make sure that we are supporting the people that are supporting us,” said UAC CEO Jenny Bax. “Our BDMs are very conscious of the service they provide, and they really want to make sure that they're supporting their brokers, who are their customers, and the end customer.” Katrina Johnson, national business development manager at CHU Underwriting Agencies, won that award. The judges complimented Johnson’s “demonstrated ability to concurrently manage the growth objectives for the business both holistically across the wider organisation and at an individual larger client level”. AAMC, one of Australia’s largest providers of motor accident management services, sponsored the General Insurer Claims Team of the Year award. This year, considerable weight was placed on nominations that came directly from the broking community. “Of all the awards that we get to choose from, Claims Team of the Year is probably the most aligned to our business,” said Daniel Lukich, AAMC’s sales and strategic relationships manager. “So to be able to sponsor and support claims excellence is pretty important to us.” Berkley Insurance Australia, represented on the night by national head of claims Barbara Stenning, won this award. Another firm heavily involved in the critical claims area – Gallagher – took home the award for Best Customer Service From An Individual Office. “This is all about the whole team and the way they work together, the way they responded to the catastrophe,” said Adam Squire, Gallagher’s head of claims. “They're incredibly passionate about getting claims paid, doing the right thing by customers and supporting our broker.” The judges appreciated Gallagher’s “professional processes driving good outcomes for customers” and “clear passion to deliver excellence and financial outcomes for clients at a time of need”. Another focus of the awards is the industry’s up-and-coming talent. Tate Harris, a partner at brokerage Allinsure, won the prize for Young Gun of the Year – Independent (1–19 Staff). “It's teamwork; it's not just me, right?” said Harris after receiving the honours. “It’s the people you put around you, the whole group, and when it all comes together that helps me do what I do, and I enjoy it.” The judges said Harris was “a well-rounded individual operating at all levels of the business, able to step up at short notice to ensure the organisation is well led”. Innovation Group sponsored another broker-focused award: Best Digital Strategy – Brokerage. “I think brokers are always relying on insurance companies to provide them with solutions,” said Drew Schnehage, managing director of Innovation Group Australia. “So if you can take control of your own journey in providing a service and a digital journey to your customers, that’s great, and you’re going to be at the forefront.” A long-time supporter of the awards, Mandy Cooper, director of CPR Insurance Services, was there to present the prize for Australian Insurance Brokerage of the Year (1–5 Staff). “I think it's important for being able to support the clients and actually keeping your name out there to make sure that you are proof that broking is still a good industry and that we are looking after people,” said Cooper, whose firm has won this award multiple times. “People sometimes put us with car insurance salesmen, and we're not; we're actually there, not just at buying the cover but when there's a claim, and it's really important for the clients.” At the media wall, Insurance Business enjoyed interviewing winners and sponsors. As always, congratulations to the victors – trailblazers in their respective categories who demonstrated what it takes to thrive in today’s challenging insurance and business environments. But the event belonged to all industry stakeholders. The vibe on the night, captured in photos and video highlights, was always engagingly positive with a spirit of camaraderie and celebration. A big thank you to all winners, sponsors and delegates.
Research and selection of Excellence Awardees The Insurance Business Awards Australia team conducted research and drew on industry knowledge and information gained through sister publication Insurance Business to identify the outstanding teams and individuals in each category that received Excellence Awards.
Excellence Awardees
METHODOLOGY
JUDGING PANEL
AWARD WINNERS
SPONSORS
AGENDA
Richard Feledy
Colin Fagen
Simone Dossetor
Tony Dodd
Andrew Davies
Catherine Carlyon
Lisa Carter
Kelly Butler
Trent Brown
Jenny Bax
Hilary Bates
David Akers
Thank you to our esteemed judges for lending their time and expertise to help recognise and celebrate excellence in the insurance profession.
2023 Judging panel
UAC is the peak representative body for Australian underwriting agencies. It provides professional development and educational events; expos to showcase members’ specialisations to brokers; marketing campaigns; and representation to government and industry. UAC has more than 100 agency members and almost 80 business service members. Members’ annual GWP is about $8.5 billion. Contact details: Email: jennybax@uac.org.au Website: www.uac.org.au
Colin Fagen Managing Director, Blue Zebra Insurance
Simone Dossetor CEO, Insurtech Australia
Tony Dodd Chief Executive Officer, GT Insurance
Andrew Davies CEO, Victorian Managed Insurance Authority
Catherine Carlyon Country Manager, Australia, AXA XL
Lisa Carter Managing Director, Clear Insurance
Kelly Butler Cyber Practice Leader – Pacific, Marsh JLT Specialty, Marsh
Trent Brown Director Distribution, Allstate Underwriting
Jenny Bax Chief Executive Officer, Underwriting Agencies Council (UAC)
David Akers National Sector Leader, Insurance, KPMG
Hilary Bates Chief Operations Officer and Executive Sponsor of Project Swift, Life & Investments, Zurich Financial Services Australia Limited
A word from our event partner
CHU Underwriting Agencies Young Gun of the Year Independent (20+ Staff)
Premium Partner
AAMC is a specialist motor accident management provider offering a wide range of services to the Australian insurance, broking and corporate fleet sectors. AAMC is the largest provider of motor repair and assessing services and covers the entire spectrum of motor, including passenger vehicle, heavy and light commercial and transport, plant and machinery, motorcycle and caravans. AAMC has been delivering innovative solutions to Australia’s largest and most prominent insurers for over 20 years and specialises in providing cost, quality and timeliness outcomes for its clients. Contact details: Phone: +61 456 763 042 Email: daniel.lukich@aamc.com.au Website: www.aamc.com.au
Award sponsor
Your partner to help your business go further. AXA XL is the P&C and specialty risk division of AXA, known for solving even the most complex risks. For mid-sized companies to the world’s largest multinationals, we offer traditional and innovative insurance solutions and services in over 200 countries and territories. Whatever path your business is on in these uncertain and fascinating times, we’ll be there. Wherever and whenever you need us. How? It starts with a strong and efficient capital platform, data-driven insights, leading technology and a flexible approach. Driven by a culture of superior service, our talented and recognised teams are empowered to create relevant solutions across all our lines of business − property, casualty, professional, financial lines and specialty. Contact details: Phone: +61 2 8270 1719 Email: iselle.gonzalez@axaxl.com Website: www.axaxl.com
CHU is Australia’s first and leading Strata Underwriting Agency, with a commitment to leading the way in our industry with a focus on Artificial Intelligence & Technology, Diversity & Inclusion and Environmental Sustainability. CHU is part of the Steadfast Group; a top 200 ASX-listed company with $7 billion in total billings. Steadfast is the largest general insurance broker network and group of underwriting agencies in Australasia. CHU’s policies are underwritten by QBE Insurance (Australia) Ltd, one of Australia’s most secure insurance companies. CHU is one of Australia’s largest and most respected insurance underwriting agencies. As the market leader we protect over 100,000 residential strata properties across Australia, with over half a trillion value insured. We are multi-award winners: winners of the Underwriting Agency of the Year award 2017, 2018, 2021 and 2022, Insurance Business Underwriting Agency of the Year 2022 and Gold Award winner 2016–2018, and 2019 winner of ANZIIF Excellence in Workplace Diversity and Inclusion.
Innovation Group manages critical incidents involving vehicle and home on behalf of the world’s leading insurers, brokers, fleet managers and OEMs. Innovation Group simplifies complex claim management processes for optimum efficiency at reduced cost. Our highly skilled people and trusted supply chain partners work seamlessly together delivering an outstanding service. Contact details: Phone: +61 (3) 8866 8973 Email: sales.au@innovation.group Website: www.innovation.group
QBE Australia is part of the QBE Insurance Group, an international insurer and reinsurer headquartered in Sydney with offices across all states and territories. Our purpose is all about enabling a more resilient future. We provide a broad range of insurance products to personal, business, corporate and institutional customers – from car and home insurance to tailored business packages and specialist cover for industries such as aviation and farming. We don’t simply offer insurance. We’re all about the before and after – helping our customers to protect and prevent against the ‘what ifs’ and being there to support if anything goes wrong. Contact details: Website: www.qbe.com/au/brokers
Wilbur is an award-winning SaaS platform for insurance claims. Whether you need end-to-end claims management, a vetted supplier network or live video collaboration, Wilbur helps you take control of your claims. With 20 years of experience, we know first-hand that insurance claims can be hard – and that’s why insurers, TPAs, brokers and builders trust Wilbur to deliver better claim outcomes. Contact details: Phone: 1300 937 973 Email: hello@wilbur.io Website: www.wilbur.io
Wilbur Underwriting Agency Claims Team of the Year
Underwriting Agencies Council Underwriting Agency BDM of the Year
Entertainment partner
SongDivision are the global leaders in musical experiences and pioneers in interactive entertainment. Above all they are a people engagement company. Since 2003 they have helped thousands of organisations around the world to strengthen connections between their people and have worked in 30 different countries, 15 different languages and played with world-renowned artists such as Aerosmith, Guns N Roses, John Farnham, Guy Sebastian and more. Contact details: Katy Aldrich Phone: +61 370 655 923 Email: katy@songdivision.com Website: www.songdivision.com
Judging The Insurance Business Awards team sends the completed Excellence Awardee submissions to an independent panel of judges comprising leaders and senior representatives of the insurance industry. Judges are well known and well respected within the industry, and their judgment is impartial, balanced, incisive and fair. Any judge with a conflict of interest in a particular category recuses themselves from judging that category. Judges review the Excellence Awardee submissions and allocate a score to each Excellence Awardee. The Excellence Awardee with the highest score in each category once the judging process has been completed is named the winner of that category.
Elliot Hill
Chris Hamilton
Stacy Finnegan
Eric Lowenstein
Simon Lightbody
Marni Jackson
Enrique Sicurella
Anthony Pagano
Sarah Lyons
Chay Wilkinson
Barbara Stenning
Jill Stewart
Richard Feledy Managing Director, Allianz Australia
Stacy Finnegan National Director Authorised Representatives – National, Aon
Chris Hamilton Manager, Marketing & Communications (APAC) Duck Creek
Elliot Hill Managing Director, Business, QBE Insurance
Marni Jackson Head of Product, Youi
Simon Lightbody CEO, Rhodian Group Pty Ltd
Eric Lowenstein CEO, Tego
Sarah Lyons Chief Executive, Gallagher Australia
Anthony Pagano Head of Distribution, Vero
Enrique Sicurella Director, CCM Insurance Group
Jill Stewart Head of FINEX (Financial & Executive Risks) Australasia, Willis Towers Watson
Barbara Stenning National Head of Claims, Berkley Insurance Australia
Chay Wilkinson CEO, ANA Chartered Loss Adjusters
Chris Hamilton Manager, Marketing & Communications (APAC), Duck Creek
Justin Kennedy Managing Director, Key Media
FRIDAY 15 SEPTEMBER 2023 | THE FULLERTON HOTEL SYDNEY
Australian Young Gun of the Year
Australian Brokerage of the Year
Australian Broker of the Year
singing from several insurance professionals – perhaps most memorable, a passionate but off-key version of John Farnham’s You’re the Voice. Comedian, radio and television presenter Merrick Watts hosted the evening with engaging wit and set the tone during his welcome speech: “This industry is not viewed as sexy enough,” said Watts, claiming he was referencing an ABC News report. “Looking around this group, I can honestly say that’s the first thing the ABC has got right in a while.” Sexy or not, in the current age of increasingly complex risks and challenges, the insurance industry is probably more important than ever before. Encouraging and celebrating the industry has become all the more vital. The Underwriting Agencies Council (UAC) was this year’s Awards Premium Partner. UAC sponsored two awards: the Underwriting Agency of the Year award and Underwriting Agency BDM of the Year. “It's very important that we make sure that we are supporting the people that are supporting us,” said UAC CEO Jenny Bax. “Our BDMs are very conscious of the service they provide, and they really want to make sure that they're supporting their brokers, who are their customers, and the end customer.” Katrina Johnson, national business development manager at CHU Underwriting Agencies, won that award. The judges complimented Johnson’s “demonstrated ability to concurrently manage the growth objectives for the business both holistically across the wider organisation and at an individual larger client level”. AAMC, one of Australia’s largest providers of motor accident management services, sponsored the General Insurer Claims Team of the Year award. This year, considerable weight was placed on nominations that came directly from the broking community. “Of all the awards that we get to choose from, Claims Team of the Year is probably the most aligned to our business,” said Daniel Lukich, AAMC’s sales and strategic relationships manager. “So to be able to sponsor and support claims excellence is pretty important to us.” Berkley Insurance Australia, represented on the night by national head of claims Barbara Stenning, won this award. Another firm heavily involved in the critical claims area – Gallagher – took home the award for Best Customer Service From An Individual Office. “This is all about the whole team and the way they work together, the way they responded to the catastrophe,” said Adam Squire, Gallagher’s head of claims. “They're incredibly passionate about getting claims paid, doing the right thing by customers and supporting our broker.” The judges appreciated Gallagher’s “professional processes driving good outcomes for customers” and “clear passion to deliver excellence and financial outcomes for clients at a time of need”. Another focus of the awards is the industry’s up-and-coming talent. Tate Harris, a partner at brokerage Allinsure, won the prize for Young Gun of the Year – Independent (1–19 Staff). “It's teamwork; it's not just me, right?” said Harris after receiving the honours. “It’s the people you put around you, the whole group, and when it all comes together that helps me do what I do, and I enjoy it.” The judges said Harris was “a well-rounded individual operating at all levels of the business, able to step up at short notice to ensure the organisation is well led”. Innovation Group sponsored another broker-focused award: Best Digital Strategy – Brokerage. “I think brokers are always relying on insurance companies to provide them with solutions,” said Drew Schnehage, managing director of Innovation Group Australia. “So if you can take control of your own journey in providing a service and a digital journey to your customers, that’s great, and you’re going to be at the forefront.” A long-time supporter of the awards, Mandy Cooper, director of CPR Insurance Services, was there to present the prize for Australian Insurance Brokerage of the Year (1-5 Staff). “I think it's important for being able to support the clients and actually keeping your name out there to make sure that you are proof that broking is still a good industry and that we are looking after people,” said Cooper, whose firm has won this award multiple times. “People sometimes put us with car insurance salesmen, and we're not; we're actually there, not just at buying the cover but when there's a claim, and it's really important for the clients.” At the media wall, Insurance Business enjoyed interviewing winners and sponsors. As always, congratulations to the victors – trailblazers in their respective categories who demonstrated what it takes to thrive in today’s challenging insurance and business environments. But the event belonged to all industry stakeholders. The vibe on the night, captured in photos and video highlights, was always engagingly positive with a spirit of camaraderie and celebration. A big thank you to all winners, sponsors and delegates.
Cansure is a leading Canadian insurance supplier servicing brokers across the country. As an open market, Cansure is accessible by all licensed brokers in Canada and seek to be a first-choice supplier offering breadth of products to protect both standard and non-standard risks across personal and commercial lines. Known for their creative underwriting solutions and expertise, Cansure continues to sustain strong financial security supported by both global and domestic partnerships. For more information, visit www.cansure.com.
Award Sponsor
BACK
This award recognises the best authorised representative network in Australia.
Oracle Group Australia
View profile
McLardy McShane Group
WINNER
Insurance Advisernet Australia
McLardy McShane Partners
Insurance Advisernet
Australian Broker Network
Community Broker Network
allinsure AUZi Insurance Bell Partners Insurance Elliott Insurance Brokers Imperium Insurance and Financial Solutions InterRe Insurance Brokers
TRC Group
Gallagher
Customer service is an important measure of any brokerage’s long-term sustainability and success. This award recognises the best brokerage office or branch that has maintained consistent and sustainable customer service standards over the past 12 months.
Innovation Group manages critical incidents involving vehicle and home on behalf of the world’s leading insurers, brokers, fleet managers and OEMs. Innovation Group simplifies complex claim management processes for optimum efficiency at reduced cost. Our highly skilled people and trusted supply chain partners work seamlessly together, delivering an outstanding service. Contact details: Phone: +61 (3) 8866 8973 Email: sales.au@innovation.group Website: www.innovation.group
“The time for traditional broking is in the past; the future is online digital platforms for brokers and their policyholders. Brokers that are on the front foot to create a digital customer experience will be the frontrunners. We equally share their passion and are inspired by the entries this year. We look forward to celebrating their successes at the 2023 Insurance Business awards.”
drew schnehage, managing director - australia
AUZi Insurance DKG Insurance Brokers
Shielded Insurance
This award recognises the best brokerage that has harnessed digital channels to provide clients with practical, effective and easily accessible information to help them with their businesses.
Steamatic is a world-renowned company specializing in restoration, disaster recovery and specialty cleaning. The Canadian division, founded more than 50 years ago, benefits from one of the largest franchise networks in the world. The Steamatic trademark (operating under BMS Technologies outside the United States and Canada) has been innovating year after year with representatives in the United States, South America, Europe and Australia. Steamatic Canada is now headed by Nancy Raymond, an elite entrepreneur recognized throughout the province of Quebec for having led her disaster banner for 10 years. Accompanied by her experienced insurance and disaster management team, its goal is to develop the network to become one of the biggest players in the industry at the Canadian level. For more information, visit steamatic.ca.
This award recognises the best brokerage operation with 1–5 staff (or full-time equivalents) in Australia. The number of staff includes all brokers writing business (licence holders or authorised representatives) and support staff. To be eligible your brokerage must be independently branded and headquartered in Australia.
Cruden Read InterRe Insurance Brokers J&B Insurance Brokers Praden Insurance Broking and Advisory Smith & Lane Insurance
Insurance Lab
Agile Insurance allinsure ARMA Insurance Brokers Young Clear Insurance Elliott Insurance Brokers Grace Insurance Stewart Insurance Group
Bell Partners Insurance
This award recognises the best brokerage operation with 6–20 staff (or full-time equivalents) in Australia. The number of staff includes all brokers writing business (license holders or authorised representatives) and support staff. To be eligible your brokerage must be independently branded and headquartered in Australia.
This award recognises the best brokerage operation with more than 20 staff (or full-time equivalents) in Australia. The number of staff includes all brokers writing business (licence holders or authorised representatives) and support staff. To be eligible your brokerage must be independently branded and headquartered in Australia.
Aon CRM Brokers McLardy McShane Insurance Brokers Shielded Insurance
Honan Insurance Group
This award recognises an HR leader who has demonstrated excellence at the executive level over the past 12 months. Eligible finalists were senior-level leaders who report to the CEO and manage an HR team. Finalists were judged on their leadership, communication, strategy, drive and results.
AUZi Insurance CRM Brokers Cruden Read Insurance Lab Trade Risk
CCM Insurance Group
This award recognises the best brokerage operation for which over 50% of its business is in one area of specialty risk.
AMA Insurance Brokers
QBE Australia is part of the QBE Insurance Group, an international insurer and reinsurer headquartered in Sydney with offices across all states and territories. Our purpose is all about enabling a more resilient future. We provide a broad range of insurance products to personal, business, corporate and institutional customers. From car and home insurance, to tailored business packages and specialist cover for industries such as aviation and farming. We don’t simply offer insurance. We’re all about the before and after – helping our customers to protect and prevent against the ‘what ifs’ and being there to support if anything goes wrong. Contact details: Website: www.qbe.com/au/brokers
“QBE is delighted to sponsor the prestigious 2023 Broker of the Year Authorised Representative award. As our Q nect model is specifically designed to help our Authorised Representatives and brokers achieve their business ambitions, we’re proud to be part of this recognition and look forward to celebrating with our Partners.”
Steve Talbot, Head of Q nect, Partnerships, QBE Australia Pacific
Anthony Anastasio, Everest Risk Group Matthew Bates, Bell Partners Insurance Shane Brady, McLardy McShane South East Insurance Brokers Ken Dixon, Dixon Insurance Services
Grace Insurance
Aimee Henderson
This award recognises the best broker attached to an authorised representative network.
Sumit Sopori, Imperium Insurance and Financial Solutions
Ellie Euers, Allan Hall Human Resource Services
Jay Vuppala, MGA Insurance Group - Melbourne
Advocis, The Financial Advisors Association of Canada is the largest voluntary professional membership association of financial advisors in Canada, representing more than 17,000 member-clients and 40 Chapters across the country. Advocis provides a platform of knowledge, advocacy, community and protection, advancing the value and professionalism of financial advisors and planners in the best interest of the consumer. We offer professional designations, continuing education, industry-leading publications and membership in a chapter network with mentorship programs, study groups and practice development resources. For more information, visit www.advocis.ca.
This award recognises the best broker working in an independent brokerage operation with less than 20 staff (or full-time equivalents). The number of staff includes all brokers writing business (licence holders and authorised representatives) and support staff.
Dean Kennedy, Cruden Read Luke McMahon, Bespoke Insurance Group & First Nations Insurance Group Frans du Plessis, Grace Insurance Daniel Webber, Webber Insurance Services
Simplex Insurance Solutions
Kay Jackson
Armour Insurance Brokers Ltd. is a leading Canadian brokerage, recognized for its expertise in complex risks. Founded in 2010 by Sukhdeep Kang, Armour is headquartered in Mississauga, ON with operations in multiple provinces in Canada. Armour offers all kinds of transportation, commercial, and personal insurance. Armour’s mission is to be the client’s advocate while protecting their assets with a high degree of professionalism, empathy, and respect. Armour is recognized in the industry and among clients for its strong experience, responsive client service, excellent product knowledge, proactive risk management and loss control, and its unique claims advocacy processes. Armour’s strength rests in its diversified, knowledgeable, and courteous staff. Armour is dedicated to its customers and insurance partners and is always looking to strive excellence in professionalism. For more information visit: www.armour-insurance.com.
Shannan Gardner, Guardian Insurance Brokers Simon Gray, Planned Cover James Musial, Honan Insurance Group Olivia Pollock, Shielded Insurance Brokers Daniel Reid, Honan Insurance Group
BMS Coast to Coast
Dale Hansen
This award recognises the best broker working in an independent brokerage operation with 20 or more staff (or full-time equivalents). The number of staff includes all brokers writing business (licence holders and authorised representatives) and support staff.
For over 50 years, Burns & Wilcox has been uniquely focused on the success of the agents and brokers with whom we work. No matter the type of coverage, from the more routine to the large, complex and hard-to place, our 2000+ professionals possess a relentless commitment to applying their expertise to their clients’ needs day in and day out. This results in the right answer, right now for both long-term partners and new relationships. For more information, visit burnsandwilcox.ca.
Broker of the Year –– Specialist
This award recognises the best broker for whom over 50% of business is derived from one area of specialty risk.
Shabab Maqsud, Honan Insurance Group Leanne Murphy, Praden Insurance Broking and Advisory
Gary Sim
Joseph Cuzzocrea, Maxton Insurance Brokers Regan Pugh, Elliott Insurance Brokers Olivia Taylor, Praden Insurance Broking and Advisory William Thompson, Thompson Insurance Siobhan Wilde, ARMA Insurance Brokers Hunter Valley Pty Ltd James Wilson, Delmont Insurance Group
Allinsure
Tate Harris
This award recognises the best broker who was under 35 as of 31 March 2023, working for an independent brokerage operation with less than 20 staff (or full-time equivalents). The number of staff includes all brokers writing business (licence holders and authorised representatives) and support staff.
CHU is Australia’s first and leading Strata Underwriting Agency, with a commitment to leading the way in our industry, with a focus on Artificial Intelligence & Technology, Diversity & Inclusion and Environmental Sustainability. CHU is part of the Steadfast Group; a top 200 ASX-listed company with $7 billion in total billings. Steadfast is the largest general insurance broker network and group of underwriting agencies in Australasia. CHU’s policies are underwritten by QBE Insurance (Australia) Ltd, one of Australia’s most secure insurance companies. CHU is one of Australia’s largest and most respected insurance underwriting agencies. As the market leader we protect over 100,000 residential strata properties across Australia, with over half a trillion value insured. We are multi-award winners: winners of the Underwriting Agency of the Year Award 2017, 2018, 2021 and 2022, Insurance Business Underwriting Agency of the Year 2022 and Gold Award winner 2016–2018, and 2019 winner of ANZIIF Excellence in Workplace Diversity and Inclusion.
“CHU is thrilled to have been nominated for the Underwriting Agency of the Year. This is a wonderful recognition of the hard work and passion that each and every CHU team member puts in each day. Congratulations to all the nominees.”
Kimberley Jonsson, CEO, CHU Underwriting Agencies
This award recognises the best broker who was under 35 as of 31 March 2023, working for an independent brokerage operation with 20 or more staff (or full-time equivalents). The number of staff includes all brokers writing business (licence holders and authorised representatives) and support staff.
Will Bird, Insure 247- Ausure Adam Sloan, Ausure
Hannah Tormey
“I’m proud that for the 5th year, AXA XL is sponsoring the Young Gun of the Year – International Award. Insurance is often overlooked as a career choice – we need to keep attracting talent as well as celebrating and supporting the development of the passionate individuals who are contributing to the future of insurance in Australia.”
Catherine Carlyon, Country Manager Australia, AXA XL
Hayden Moorcroft, Gallagher Lisa O’Sullivan, AON Ben Willis, Gallagher
Marsh
Mahrukh Hamayun
This award recognises the best broker who was under 35 as of 31 March 2023, working for an international brokerage with at least one office outside of Australia.
Berkley Insurance Australia CGU Chubb Insurance
Allianz
This award recognises the best general insurer operating in Australia. The results of the 2022 Insurance Business Brokers on Insurers survey provide 50% weighting.
“UAC is proud to sponsor the Underwriting Agency of the Year award. The recipient represents the pinnacle of professionalism in client service and underwriting across the many underwriting agencies operating in the Australian market.”
Jenny Bax, CEO, uac
This award recognises the best underwriting agency operating in Australia.
GT Insurance
Agile Underwriting Services
Emergence Insurance Pty Ltd
ARAG Services Australia Pty Ltd
Pen Underwriting
Solution Underwriting Agency Underwriting Agencies of Australia
ARAG Australia
Emergence Insurance
CHU Underwriting Agencies
This award recognises the best general insurer or underwriting agency that has harnessed digital channels to provide brokers with practical, effective and easily accessible facilities to help them with their business.
Berkley Insurance Australia Emergence Insurance ProRisk Underwriting
Blue Zebra Insurance
This award recognises the best service provider within the insurance sector operating in Australia. Eligible service providers include but are not limited to software and technology, legal, compliance, training and education.
Advisr Allied Universal Compliance and Investigations BizCover Crawford & Company Australia Duck Creek Technologies DXC Technology Kanopi
AAMC
Gallagher Bassett
Bradley Gray, QBE Sanj Reddy, Allianz Luke Wennerbom, Vero Insurance Bernadette Wood, Allianz
CGU
Michael Walker
This award recognises the best BDM working for a general insurer operating in Australia. Considerable weight is placed on nominations that come directly from the broking community.
AAMC is a specialist motor accident management provider offering a wide range of services to the Australian insurance, broking and corporate fleet sectors. AAMC is the largest provider of motor repair and assessing services and covers the entire spectrum of motor, including passenger vehicle, heavy and light commercial and transport, plant and machinery, motorcycles and caravans. AAMC has been delivering innovative solutions to Australia’s largest and most prominent insurers for over 20 years and specialises in providing cost, quality and timeliness outcomes for their clients. Contact details: Phone: +61 456 763 042 Email: daniel.lukich@aamc.com.au Website: www.aamc.com.au
AAMC is a specialist motor accident management provider offering a wide range of services to the Australian insurance, broking and corporate fleet sectors. AAMC is the largest provider of motor repair and assessing services and covers the entire spectrum of motor, including passenger vehicle, heavy and light commercial and transport, plant and machinery, motorcycle and caravans. AAMC has been delivering innovative solutions to Australia’s largest and most prominent insurers for over 20 years and specialises in providing cost, quality and timeliness outcomes for their clients. Contact details: Phone: +61 456 763 042 Email: daniel.lukich@aamc.com.au Website: www.aamc.com.au
“AAMC is delighted to be supporting the Claims Team of the Year award. Our business works hand in hand with the motor claims sector and sees first-hand the benefits a great team brings to an insurance company’s.”
Daniel Lukich, Sales & Strategic Relationship Manager, aamc
This award recognises the best claims team within a general insurer operating in Australia. Considerable weight is placed on nominations that come directly from the broking community.
AIG Australia Chubb Insurance
Berkley Insurance Australia
“Agencies thrive on their ability to build relationships with brokers and keep the market well informed about their products and service levels. A well-rounded, professional BDM is the key to achieving that, which is why UAC is so proud to sponsor this award.”
Tena Dedic, Longitude Insurance Connie Gane, Underwriting Agencies of Australia Jessica Hutchinson, Dual Australia Jessica Jenkins, Solution Underwriting Agency Daniel Joiner, Mecon Insurance Anthony Porter, AFA Insurance Chris Varkoly, Prorisk Underwriting
Katrina Johnson
CHU Underwriting Agencies Pty Ltd
This award recognises the best BDM working for an underwriting agency operating in Australia. Considerable weight is placed on nominations that come directly from the broking community.
James Pepplinkhouse, Chief Technology Officer, wilbur
“It’s an honour to be sponsoring the Underwriting Agency Claims Team of the Year category. Claims departments have been integral in assisting policyholders and providing peace of mind when disaster strikes. The insurance world is nothing without the claims teams supporting it – and many insurance professionals know this too well.”
This award recognises the best claims team within an underwriting agency operating in Australia. Considerable weight is placed on nominations that come directly from the broking community.
GT Insurance Woodina Underwriting Agency
This award recognises the most outstanding broker working in the Australian insurance industry. The Excellence Awardees in this category comprise the winners of the following categories: Broker of the Year (1–19 Staff) Broker of the Year (20+ Staff) Broker of the Year – Specialist Broker of the Year – Authorised Representative
Aimee Henderson, Grace Insurance Kay Jackson, Simplex Insurance Solutions Gary Sim, CCM Insurance Group
This award recognises the most outstanding brokerage business headquartered in and operated in Australia. The Excellence Awardees in this category comprise the winners of the following categories: Brokerage of the Year (1–5 Staff) Brokerage of the Year (6–20 Staff) Brokerage of the Year (20+ Staff) Specialist Brokerage of the Year
Bell Partners Insurance Honan Insurance Group Insurance Lab
This award recognises the most outstanding broker who is under 35. The Excellence Awardees in this category comprise the winners of the following awards: Young Gun of the Year – Independent (1-19 Staff) Young Gun of the Year – Independent (20+ Staff) Young Gun of the Year – International
Mahrukh Hamayun, Marsh Tate Harris, Allinsure
