A word from Key Media
What to expect on the night
2024 Sponsors
Excellence in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Event Partner
Award sponsors
Official media
Organiser
Methodology
more
Excellence Awardees
Stage One – Nominations A nationwide call for nominations was conducted from early December 2023 to 2 February 2024 using Insurance Business’ online channels. Nominations were opened across 20 categories. Any individual or company operating in the Australian insurance industry was eligible to submit a nomination, either on their own behalf or for someone else. Nominations were required to focus on achievements and results from the previous 12 months: 1 January–31 December 2023. All information contained in the entries and marked ‘confidential’ was to be treated as such and not released without permission of the entrant. All nominations had to be submitted via the official Insurance Business Awards online portal on or before the final date of entry. The Insurance Business Awards team reserved the right to refuse any nominations submitted after that date. Nominations could not exceed 500 words and were expected to be brief, concise and factual. Nominees selected as Excellence Awardees could complete a detailed submission addressing the category criteria in more detail.
Stage Three – Confirmation of Excellence Awardees Once the research was completed, Excellence Awardees were selected in each category and notified via email. The Excellence Awardees for the national award – Australian Brokerage of the Year – comprised the winners of the Small, Medium and Large Brokerage categories and were announced at the awards event in May. Excellence Awardees were also announced on the Insurance Business website.
Stage Four – Excellence Awardee submissions All Excellence Awardees were invited to complete an official submission form, which asked for details on how each Excellence Awardee fulfilled the criteria for their award category. All information contained in the submissions was kept entirely confidential unless otherwise marked and was not shared with any third parties other than the judges.
Find out more
Australia Underwriting Broker of the Year
QBE Q nect Authorised Representative Network of the Year
QBE Q nect Authorised Representative of the Year
AAMC Claims Team of the Year
Underwriting Agency of the Year
Lifetime Achievement
ShieldCover Medium Brokerage
Large Brokerage
Young Achiever of the Year
The team at Insurance Business are extremely proud to have hosted the Insurance Business Australia Awards for the seventh year. Insurance Business continues to be Australia’s leading media resource for the insurance industry, delivering essential news, insights and analysis to you each week. The last 12 months have probably been a little easier for the industry than the year before. Insurance firms have levelled the ship, but the industry still faces big challenges, including rising costs, capacity issues, insurance affordability and natural catastrophes. That’s why the work of brokers, underwriting agencies, insurers, claims teams and all insurance professionals is so worthy of acknowledgement. Despite the obstacles, the insurance profession has risen to the task of supporting its clients and communities through one of the most challenging periods in Australia’s corporate history. The 2024 Awards 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 – 2024 is no exception, highlighting the finest in the industry. The Insurance Business Australia 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. Congratulations to all the 2024 winners and Excellence Awardees. We hope you had a fantastic night. Finally, we would like to thank all our sponsors whose generous support of these awards is greatly appreciated. Our thanks go out to AAMC, Australia Underwriting, Crawford & Company, Financial Education, QBE Q nect and ShieldCover.
Stage Two – Research and selection of Excellence Awardees The Insurance Business Awards team reviewed the submissions and drew on industry knowledge and information gained through Insurance Business Australia to identify the outstanding brokers, brokerages and insurers in each category that would receive an Excellence Award.
Awards
Small Brokerage
Jonathan Hubbard
Elliot Hill
Chris Hamilton
Stacy Finnegan
Colin Fagen
Tony Dodd
Andrew Davies
Marc Crossman
Anna Cranney
Lisa Carter
Trent Brown
Jenny Bax
Diego Ascani
David Akers
Leo Abbruzzo
Thank you to our esteemed judges for lending their time and expertise to help recognise and celebrate excellence in the insurance profession.
2024 Judging panel
Liberty offers free-thinking home loans and term deposits to provide Kiwis with greater choice. A pioneer in specialty finance, Liberty recognises borrowers overlooked by traditional lenders and is committed to financial inclusion. Since 2001, Liberty has advanced over $2 billion in home loans, to become a leading finance company. Contact details: Igor Stychinsky Chief Operating Officer Phone: 09 375 0756 Email: istychinsky@libfin.co.nz Website: www.libfin.co.nz
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 its clients. Contact details: Daniel Lukich Sales & Strategic Relationship Manager Phone: +61 (0) 456 763 042 Email: daniel.lukich@aamc.com.au Website: www.aamc.com.au
Award sponsor
ShieldCover offers competitive liability cover for blue-collar sectors, including general trades & services, hospitality, manufacturing, and property owners. Our streamlined online quoting system, supported by a dedicated team of experienced underwriters, enhances our strong client base. Our mission is to support our broking partners so they can support their clients. Contact details: Greg Rynenberg Founder and CEO Phone: (07) 3510 9535 Email: hello@shieldcover.com.au Website: www.shieldcover.com.au
Financial Education Professionals is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO Code 90725) providing professional education and licensing compliance training solutions for insurance, banking & financial services workplaces. Our learning exemplifies the highest standards of technical proficiency & principled leadership. Providing fit for purpose, industry-relevant learning is our way of ensuring you stay up to date and well-equipped in an evolving insurance landscape. Contact details: Phone: +61 2 9233 2000 Email: enquiries@financialeducation.com.au Website: www.financialeducation.com.au
Champagne sponsor
Leo Abbruzzo Executive Chairman, DUAL ANZ
David Akers National Sector Leader, Insurance, KPMG
Diego Ascani Chief Executive Officer, Sedgwick Australia
Jenny Bax Chief Executive Officer, Underwriting Agencies Council (UAC)
Trent Brown Director Distribution, Allstate Underwriting
Lisa Carter CEO, Managing Director, Clear Insurance
Anna Cranney Partnerships Manager, Insurtech Australia
Marc Crossman Group Strategy & Distribution Manager, UAA Group
Andrew Davies CEO, Victorian Managed Insurance Authority
Tony Dodd Chief Executive Officer, GT Insurance
Colin Fagen Managing Director, Blue Zebra Insurance
Stacy Finnegan Broking Advisory Board Chairperson, ANZIIF
Chris Hamilton Head of Marketing & Communications (APAC), Duck Creek Technologies
Elliot Hill Managing Director, Business, QBE Insurance
Jonathan Hubbard President, Australia, Crawford & Company Australia
EVENT PARTNER
Photobooth sponsor
By the Organiser of
Stage Five – Judging The Insurance Business Awards team sent completed Excellence Awardee submissions to an independent panel of judges comprising insurance industry leaders and senior representatives. Judges were well known and well respected in the industry, and their judgement was impartial, balanced, incisive and fair. Any judge with a conflict of interest in a particular category would recuse themselves from judging that category. Judges reviewed the Excellence Awardee submissions and allocated a score for each Excellence Awardee. The Excellence Awardee with the highest score in each category was named the winner of that category.
3 MAY 2024 | THE FULLERTON HOTEL SYDNEY
One novelty at the seventh annual Awards was new categories, including this Lifetime award. Other newbies included Woman of Distinction (won by Claire Burke, CHU Underwriting Agencies) and CEO of the Year (won by Tony Dodd, GT Insurance). Claims champions “It’s such a diverse industry, and it does a whole lot of good that maybe people don’t understand,” said Daniel Lukich, sales and strategic relationship manager at AAMC, a provider of motor accident management services. His firm sponsored the Claims Team of The Year award jointly won by CHU Underwriting Agencies and Emergence Insurance. “Recent events have placed claims performance under the spotlight, with the sector experiencing more than its fair share of negative press,” said Lukich. “This award is a timely reminder of the great work that goes on with a claims team.” Another of the night’s big awards was the Medium Brokerage prize. “For the insurance industry there are not many forums for brokerages to get acknowledgement for the work they do,” said underwriter Aman Dhaliwaal. He said his firm, ShieldCover, was very proud to be the sponsor of this award. “The Awards actually bring these insurance professionals together onto one stage to celebrate and be appreciated for the work they do,” said Dhaliwaal. “You play an unusually important role” The event’s master of ceremonies was the witty comedian, radio broadcaster and television presenter Merrick Watts. Watts said it was a privilege to be the night’s MC. “I had been booked to be a judge for the Victoria’s Secret lingerie awards,” he said. “Then my manager rang up and said, ‘Hold it! The Insurance Business Awards has called!’ And I said, ‘I think we know where I’ll be going on Friday night!’” In his opening speech, Watts considered the significance of the insurance industry. “It’s worth reflecting on the industry that we all, including me this evening, are a part of,” he said. “You play an unusually important role.” Delegates from across the industry Delegates representing insurers, brokers, underwriters, claims management companies, loss adjusters and other companies from across the industry all enjoyed the evening. Matt Whitley from PSC Insurance Brokers won another biggie: Broker of the Year. This award was sponsored by Australian Underwriting. Other important awards on the night included Authorised Representative Network of the Year and Authorised Representative of the Year, both sponsored by QBE Q nect. “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,” said Steve Talbot, head of Q nect, Partnerships, QBE Australia Pacific. Insurance Advisernet was named AR Network of the Year. Sumit Sopori from Imperium Insurance and Financial Solutions won the AR of the Year award. Other winners included McLardy McShane Insurance Brokers, which took out the Australian Brokerage of the Year award. Merusha Naidoo received the Excellence in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion award for Aon. During the event, the photo booth sponsored by Crawford proved to be a popular hangout. The champagne provided by Financial Education continued to flow long into the night. Congratulations to the victors! Insurance Business enjoyed interviewing them at the media wall. These professionals are all industry trailblazers who have demonstrated the tenacity and skill it takes to succeed in today’s challenging insurance and business world.
Hundreds of industry professionals gathered at Sydney’s Fullerton Hotel on 3 May for the Insurance Business Australia Awards 2024. The evening’s fun involved celebrating the industry’s high achievers across 21 categories while enjoying a three-course dinner, music and live entertainment. “It’s absolutely fabulous,” said Keith Roderick who won the Lifetime Achievement award, the night’s highest honour. The Victorian veteran, managing director of Roderick Insurance Brokers, has enjoyed an insurance career that spans six decades. “I’m a very lucky person to have worked in the industry,” he told IB after his big win. “It’s a great industry.”
And has fun!
Celebrating a diverse industry that does good
Philanthropy & Community Service – CSR
Rachel York
Tesh Patel
Sare Ozkara
Kirsty Owens
Richard Osborn
Carola Moore
Eric Lowenstein
Simon Lightbody
Marni Jackson
Marni Jackson Head of Product, Youi
Simon Lightbody CEO, Rhodian Group Pty Ltd
Eric Lowenstein CEO, Tego
Carola Moore Head of Group Claims, AIA Australia
Richard Osborn Chief Of Staff, AXA XL
Kirsty Owens National e-Business Manager, Berkley Insurance Australia
Sare Ozkara Executive Manager, Broker Partnerships, Vero
Tesh Patel Managing Director, Delta Insurance Australia
Rachel York Chief Operating Officer, Clover Insurance
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: Steve Talbot Head of Q nect, Partnerships Email: Steve.Talbot@qbe.com Website: www.qbe.com.au/qnect
Champagne Sponsor
Crawford & Company is the world’s largest publicly listed claims management business. Working with Crawford means staying ahead of claims challenges with innovation that moves you forward and specialised experts at your side. Crawford is known for quality that sets industry benchmarks, expertise that is deep and eminent and digital that simplifies. Contact details: Allison Watts Head of Business Development & Growth Phone: +61 429 233 001 Email: allison.watts@crawco.com.au Website: www.crawco.com.au
Photobooth Sponsor
Maya Lazarus
Maya Lazarus Claims Manager – Brooklyn Underwriting, Brooklyn Underwriting & AXA XL
Andrew Whittle
Danielle Whitelock
Andrew Spilsbury
Andrew Spilsbury Global VP of Brand Strategy, Management and Growth Gallagher Bassett
Danielle Whitelock General Manager – Client Experience, Achmea
Andrew Whittle Managing Director Partnerships Gallagher Australia
Australian Brokerage of the Year
Best Service Provider – Insurtech
Best Service Provider – Claims
Employer of Choice
Outstanding Customer Experience
CEO of the Year
Insurer of the Year
BDM of the Year
Woman of Distinction
Justin Kennedy Managing Director, Key Media
Australia Underwriting has a dedicated team with many years of experience focusing on Risk Placement, Servicing, and Maintenance of Programs and Binding Authority contracts. Expertise within the team covers Property, Casualty, Construction & Engineering, Financial & Specialty Lines and Cyber Insurance. Growth strategy targeting hard-to-place property risks in the Manufacturing, Construction, Trades, Commercial, Multi-occupancy Strata, Island Properties, Far North Qld Risks, Recycling sectors, and Unoccupied Properties to provide insurance solutions to the Australian broker market. We are committed to ongoing product development and expansion; our aim is to provide simple solutions to complex insurance to the Australian broker market. Contact details: Phone: 1300 287 475 Email: distribution@australiaunderwriting.au Website: www.australiaunderwriting.au
Stage Six – Awards ceremony The winners in each category were announced at the Insurance Business Awards gala dinner on Friday 3 May 2024 at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney. The winners were also published on the Insurance Business website.
Commemorative Guide
Awards winners
Photo Gallery
Check out our gallery for some of our favourite memories as we celebrated the best and the brightest of the Australia’s insurance industry.
GALLERY
METHODOLOGY
JUDGING PANEL
VIDEO HIGHLIGHT
AWARD WINNERS
SPONSORS
Video highlight
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 them if anything goes wrong. Contact details: Steve Talbot Head of Q nect, Partnerships Email: Steve.Talbot@qbe.com Website: www.qbe.com.au/qnect
BACK
Angela Downie Platinum Mortgages New Zealand
Cameron Marcroft Loan Market Central
Eugene Bartsaikin Twine Financial Advisers
Jaz Bedi The Mortage & Loan Guru
Jessica Pronk The Mortgage Supply Co - Titirangi
Karen Renwick Mortgage Link Albany
Nathan Miglani NZ Mortgages
Zebunisso Alimova Mike Pero Mortgages (Wellington/Kapiti)
“QBE is delighted to sponsor the 2024 Authorised Representative Network of the Year and the Authorised Representative of the Year awards. 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
This award recognises the best authorised representative network in Australia, based on its performance over the 12 months from 1 January to 31 December 2023. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Year-over-year growth • Effective business development and lead generation strategies • Development of key partnerships and relationships with ARs and insurers • Demonstrated broker support systems and processes • Overall support of and contribution to the insurance intermediary channel • Demonstration of positive impact on the wider community • The business’ value proposition and strategy around stakeholder engagement
McLardy McShane Partners Oracle Group Australia
Kiwi Adviser Network
Insurance Advisernet
WINNER
EverBright Finance
View profile
This award recognises the best authorised representative network in Australia. It is based on their performance over the 12 months from 1 January to 31 December 2023. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Year-over-year growth • Effective business development and lead generation strategies • Development of key partnerships and relationships with ARs and insurers • Demonstrated broker support systems and processes • Overall support of and contribution to the insurance intermediary channel • Demonstration of positive impact on the wider community • The business’ value proposition and strategy around stakeholder engagement
Steve Talbot, Head of Q nect, Partnerships, QBE Australia Pacific
QBE Australia Pacific 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: Steve Talbot Head of Q nect, Partnerships Email: Steve.Talbot@qbe.com Website: www.qbe.com.au/qnect
Frans du Plessis, Grace Insurance Peter Chamberlain, allinsure Scott O'Neill, CP Insurance Services
Imperium Insurance and Financial Solutions
Sumit Sopori
This award recognises the best authorised representative in Australia. It is based on their performance over the 12 months from 1 January to 31 December 2023. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Calendar-year growth in clients, policies written and new business • Overall approach to business development, client service, client education and relationship management, reflected in business success • Exhibited leadership and provided inspiration to others in the use of technology, marketing/branding, and innovation in business strategy • Relevant achievements over the 12-month period (including accolades, courses/certifications completed, speaking engagements, active efforts to raise education, press features, etc.)
This award recognises the best authorised representative in Australia, based on their performance over the 12 months from 1 January to 31 December 2023. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Calendar-year growth in clients, policies written and new business • Overall approach to business development, client service, client education and relationship management, reflected in business success • Exhibited leadership and provided inspiration to others in the use of technology, marketing/branding, and innovation in business strategy • Relevant achievements over the 12-month period (including accolades, courses/certifications completed, speaking engagements, active efforts to raise education, press features, etc.)
Spencer Hon, Eternity Insurance & Financial Services
Jeffrey Royle, iLender FS
Jason Sysouphat, UAA Group Pamela Beilby, CGU Insurance Stephen Carey, Delta Insurance Australia
Jason Sysouphat, UAA Group Stephen Carey, Delta Insurance Australia
This award recognises the individual BDM within the insurance space who is pushing the envelope in business development, client service and education, and has demonstrated commitment to brokers and developing knowledge of markets. It is based on their performance over the 12 months from 1 January to 31 December 2023. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Calendar-year growth in revenue contributions and book of business • Client service and strategy for relationship management and new business development • Demonstrated success in creating opportunities for growth and providing ideas and support to their organisation • Demonstrated commitment to brokers through education, updates, research, etc. • Relevant achievements over the 12-month period (including accolades, courses/certifications completed, speaking engagements, active efforts to raise awareness, press features, etc.)
CGU Insurance
Pamela Beilby
Aimee Henderson, Grace Insurance Claire Burke, CHU Underwriting Agencies Shelagh Bock, GT Insurance Tanushree Arora-Sopori, Imperium Insurance and Financial Solutions
This award recognises the individual BDM within the insurance space who is pushing the envelope in business development, client service and education, and has demonstrated commitment to brokers and developing knowledge of markets. It is based on the BDM's performance over the 12 months from 1 January to 31 December 2023. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Calendar-year growth in revenue contributions and book of business • Client service and strategy for relationship management and new business development • Demonstrated success in creating opportunities for growth and providing ideas and support to one’s organisation • Demonstrated commitment to brokers through education, updates, research, etc. • Relevant achievements over the 12-month period (including accolades, courses/certifications completed, speaking engagements, active efforts to raise awareness, press features, etc.)
Best Service Provider - Claims
ARC Projects Credit Clear Envista Forensics Motorweb Sedgwick Australia Xceedance
This award recognises the service provider in claims that adds the most value to the business of insurance professionals. It allows them to maximise their business and help clients achieve their goals, and is making a major contribution to insurance claims in Australia. The award is based on the service provider's performance over the 12 months from 1 January to 31 December 2023. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Must be a claims service provider • Unique value proposition and major strengths reflected in client success • Approach to client service and retention • Overall commitment to the insurance industry
ARC Projects Credit Clear Envista Forensics MotorWeb Sedgwick Australia
Xceedance
The Mortgage Girls
Khushpreet Sidhu, KP Sidhu Enterprises
Best Service Provider - Insurtech
This award recognises the service provider in insurtech that adds the most value to the business of insurance professionals, allowing them to maximise their business and help clients achieve their goals. It is based on their performance over the 12 months from 1 January 2023 to 31 December 2023. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Must provide an innovative solution/service/platform that services insurers or brokers • Unique value proposition and major strengths reflected in client success • Approach to client service and retention • Overall commitment to the insurance industry
Advisr Curium Duck Creek Technologies JAVLN Kanopi Sync Technologies
BizCover for Brokers
This award recognises the service provider in insurtech that adds the most value to the business of insurance professionals, allowing them to maximise their business and help clients achieve their goals. It is based on their performance over the 12 months from 1 January to 31 December 2023. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Must provide an innovative solution/service/platform that services insurers or brokers • Unique value proposition and major strengths reflected in client success • Approach to client service and retention • Overall commitment to the insurance industry
Deon Locke, Lockmor Insurance Brokers Matt Whitley, PSC Matthew Bates, Bell Partners Insurance Regan Pugh, Elliott Insurance The Green Broker Shane Brady, Stone Lane Broking & Risk Advisory Tanushree Arora-Sopori, Imperium Insurance and Financial Solutions
Australia Underwriting has a dedicated team with many years of experience focusing on Risk Placement, Servicing, and Maintenance of Programs and Binding Authority contracts. Expertise within the team covers Property, Casualty, Construction & Engineering, Financial & Specialty Lines and Cyber Insurance. Growth strategy targeting hard-to-place property risks in the Manufacturing, Construction, Trades, Commercial, Multi-occupancy Strata, Island Properties, Far North Qld Risks, Recycling sectors and Unoccupied Properties to provide insurance solutions to the Australian broker market. We are committed to ongoing product development and expansion; our aim is to provide simple solutions to complex insurance to the Australian broker market. Contact details: Phone: 1300 287 475 Email: distribution@australiaunderwriting.au Website: www.australiaunderwriting.au
“AU is delighted to sponsor the Broker of the Year award, which stands as a testament to our commitment to supporting and recognising excellence within our industry. Thank you for your continued partnership and the outstanding work you do every day. Together, we can accomplish great things. Wishing you all the best.”
George Vincent, Director, Australia UnderwritinG
Award Sponsor
This award of is one of the highest accolades given to an individual in the insurance industry. This award recognises the most outstanding insurance broker in Australia who has best excelled at pushing the envelope with exemplary service, commitment to clients, innovation and growth. It is based on their performance over the 12 months from 1 January to 31 December 2023. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Calendar-year growth in clients, policies written and new business • Overall approach to business development, client service, client education and relationship management, reflected in business success • Exhibited leadership and provided inspiration to others in the use of technology, marketing/branding, and innovation in business strategy • Relevant achievements over the 12-month period (including accolades, courses/certifications completed, speaking engagements, active efforts to raise education, press features, etc.)
Matthew Bates, Bell Partners Insurance Regan Pugh, Elliott Insurance The Green Broker Shane Brady, Stone Lane Broking & Risk Advisory Tanushree Arora-Sopori, Imperium Insurance and Financial Solutions
PSC
Matt Whitley
Deon Locke, Lockmor Insurance Brokers
Glen Riddell, Berkley Re Asia Pacific Michael Wood, Woodina Underwriting Agency Peter Chamberlain, allinsure Tony Dodd, GT Insurance Tony Wheatley, Berkley Insurance Australia
This award goes to the CEO that has demonstrated exceptional leadership over the 12 months from 1 January to 31 December 2023, bringing their organisation to a new level of growth and success and stimulating the insurance industry. Nominees can be a CEO/president/equivalent of any organisation, in any facet of the insurance industry in Australia. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Demonstration of vision, leadership and engagement of workforce • Corporate growth, achievements, recognition, performance and positive financial results reflective of leadership • Commitment to corporate values (eg values, innovation, customer care, knowledge and education) • Commitment to the insurance industry
Glen Riddell, Berkley Re Asia Pacific Michael Wood, Woodina Underwriting Agency Peter Chamberlain, allinsure Tony Wheatley, Berkley Insurance Australia
GT Insurance
This award goes to the CEO who has demonstrated exceptional leadership over the 12 months from 1 January to 31 December 2023, bringing their organisation to a new level of growth and success and stimulating the insurance industry. Nominees can be a CEO/president/equivalent of any organisation, in any facet of the insurance industry in Australia. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Demonstration of vision, leadership and engagement of workforce • Corporate growth, achievements, recognition, performance and positive financial results reflective of leadership • Commitment to corporate values (eg values, innovation, customer care, knowledge and education) • Commitment to the insurance industry
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 have been delivering innovative solutions to Australia’s largest and most prominent insurers for over 20 years and specialise in providing cost, quality and timeliness outcomes for their clients. Contact details: Daniel Lukich Sales & Strategic Relationship Manager Phone: +61 (0) 456 763 042 Email: daniel.lukich@aamc.com.au Website: www.aamc.com.au
“AAMC are proud to be sponsoring the award for Claims Team of the Year. Recent events have placed claims performance under the spotlight, with the sector experiencing more than its fair share of negative press. This award is a timely reminder of the great work that goes on with a claims team, and an opportunity to shine a light on excellence within what has been a challenging period.”
AAMC
iConsult
Platinum Mortgages New Zealand
Sanjeev Jangra - Loan Market
Taprobane Finance
Taylored Mortgages
Total Mortgages
Allianz Australia Berkley Insurance Australia CHU Underwriting Agencies Emergence Insurance Sportscover Woodina Underwriting Agency
Allianz Australia Berkley Insurance Australia Sportscover Woodina Underwriting Agency
This award recognises the best claims team within an insurer operating in Australia. Considerable weight is placed on nominations that come directly from the broking community. The award is based on performance over the 12 months from 1 January to 31 December 2023. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Overall customer service proposition • Turnaround times • Evidence of staff engagement with claimants/business partners to keep them informed and up to date • Demonstrated commitment to innovation and continuous improvement to the claims process • Examples of a response to an event/issue or multiple claims that went beyond business as usual
CHU Underwriting Agencies
WINNERS
This award recognises the best claims team within an insurer operating in Australia. Considerable weight is placed on nominations that come directly from the broking community. The award is based on the team's performance over the 12 months from 1 January to 31 December 2023. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Overall customer service proposition • Turnaround times • Evidence of staff engagement with claimants/business partners to keep them informed and up to date • Demonstrated commitment to innovation and continuous improvement of the claims process • Examples of a response to an event/issue or multiple claims that went beyond business as usual
&
Emergence Insurance
Allianz Australia Berkley Insurance Australia Emergence Insurance
This award recognises the best organisation for employees to work for in the insurance space. It is based on the employer’s performance over the 12 months from 1 January to 31 December 2023. Employers of Choice are required to demonstrate their achievements across the key areas of organisational culture and leadership; employee education, training and development; employee health, safety and satisfaction; performance management; and recognition and remuneration.
Berkley Insurance Australia Emergence Insurance
Allianz Australia
Allianz Australia Aon BizCover Crawford & Company (Australia)
This award recognises an organisation in the insurance space that has diversity and inclusion at the heart of its business, providing programs for employees from five groups, including women, members of visible minorities, persons with disabilities, Aboriginal peoples and the LGBTI community. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Outline your organisation’s overall approach to workplace diversity and inclusion and how this aligns with broader business objectives and values • Outline how your organisation has gone above and beyond to champion diversity, equity and inclusion in and around the workplace, specifically within the 12 months from 1 January to 31 December 2023. • Share how your organisation has taken an innovative approach to DE&I and how this has led to successful outcomes
Allianz Australia BizCover Crawford & Company (Australia)
Aon
This award recognises an organisation in the insurance space that has diversity and inclusion at the heart of its business, providing programs for employees from five groups, including women, members of visible minorities, persons with disabilities, Aboriginal peoples and the LGBTI community. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Organisation’s overall approach to workplace diversity and inclusion and how this aligns with broader business objectives and values • How the organisation has gone above and beyond to champion diversity, equity and inclusion in and around the workplace, specifically within the 12 months from 1 January to 31 December 2023 • How the organisation has taken an innovative approach to DE&I, and how this has led to successful outcomes
Allianz Australia Berkley Insurance Australia Vero
Allianz Australia Berkley Insurance Australia
This award recognises the best insurer operating in Australia. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Business achievements in the insurance intermediary channel, including but not limited to service levels, turnaround times (claims and new business) and product ranges • Calendar-year growth (1 January to 31 December 2023) and market share in the insurance industry • Service innovations, including but not limited to technology, broker communications and training and development • Overall support of and contribution to the insurance intermediary channel • Demonstration of a positive impact on the wider community
Vero
This award recognises the best insurer operating in Australia. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Business achievements in the insurance intermediary channel, including but not limited to service levels, turnaround times (claims and new business), product ranges • Calendar-year growth (1 January–31 December 2023) and market share in the insurance industry • Service innovations, including but not limited to technology, broker communications, training and development • Overall support of and contribution to the insurance intermediary channel • Demonstration of positive impact on the wider community
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, the brokerage must be independently branded and headquartered in Australia. The award is based on its performance over the 12 months from 1 January to 31 December 2023. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Client retention • Customer service proposition • Financial results, including total revenue, percentage of new business, and growth in client and staff numbers • Staff development and retention • The business’ value proposition and strategy around stakeholder engagement The winner of this category becomes an Excellence Awardee for Australian Brokerage of the Year.
Aviso WA Insurance Brokers BAC Insurance Brokers National Credit Insurance (Brokers) Shielded Insurance
McLardy McShane Insurance Brokers
allinsure Bell Partners Insurance Clear Insurance Elliott Insurance The Green Broker Eternity Insurance and Financial Services Grace Insurance Trade Risk
ShieldCover offers competitive liability cover for blue-collar sectors, including general trades and services, hospitality, manufacturing, and property owners. Our streamlined online quoting system, supported by a dedicated team of experienced underwriters, enhances our strong client base. Our mission is to support our broking partners so they can support their clients. Contact details: Greg Rynenberg Founder and CEO Phone: (07) 3510 9535 Email: hello@shieldcover.com.au Website: www.shieldcover.com.au
“We extend our appreciation to all the brokers for their dedication and our gratitude for having us be part of your journey. We’re very proud to be sponsoring the Medium Brokerage award. We wish all nominees the best of luck!”
Rebecca Gottstein, Underwriting Manager, ShieldCover
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 (licence holders or authorised representatives) and support staff. To be eligible, the brokerage must be independently branded and headquartered in Australia. The award is based on its performance over the 12 months from 1 January to 31 December 2023. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Client retention • Customer service proposition • Financial results, including total revenue, percentage of new business and growth in client and staff numbers • Staff development and retention • The business’ value proposition and strategy around stakeholder engagement The winner of this category becomes an Excellence Awardee for Australian Brokerage of the Year.
allinsure Bell Partners Insurance Clear Insurance Elliott Insurance The Green Broker
Eternity Insurance and Financial Services
Trade Risk
This award of is one of the highest accolades given to an individual in the insurance industry. This award recognises the most outstanding insurance broker in Australia who has best excelled at pushing the envelope with exemplary service, commitment to clients, innovation and growth. Based on performance over the past 12 months – 1 January 2023 – 31 December 2023. When judging this category, the following criteria will be considered: • Calendar year growth in clients, policies written, new business • Overall approach to business development, client service, client education and relationship management reflecting business success • Exhibited leadership and provided inspiration to others in the use of technology, marketing/branding, and innovation in business strategy • Relevant achievements over the past 12 months (inc. accolades, courses/certifications completed, speaking engagements, active efforts to raise education, press features, etc.)
Grace Insurance
AIA Australia allinsure Bell Partners Insurance Berkley Insurance Australia BizCover Elliott Insurance The Green Broker Trade Risk
This award acknowledges insurance companies, underwriting agencies, brokerages and independent adjusting firms with a proven track record of providing their clients with superior support. Whether it is providing best-in-class assistance or reducing turnaround times, customer support is essential for client satisfaction. The award is based on performance over the 12 months from 1 January 2023 to 31 December 2023. It recognises the industry player that has mastered that service and is number one on all fronts. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Award is open to any insurers, underwriting agencies, brokerages and independent adjusting firms • Excellence Awardees will be asked to provide details on how they go the extra mile to provide excellent customer support, in all aspects from sales to claims service • Criteria for judges include interpersonal communication strategies, and telephone and face-to-face service • Innovation in the use of technology and within processes, including contact centres, loyalty management, chatbots and conversation AI
AIA Australia allinsure Bell Partners Insurance Berkley Insurance Australia Elliott Insurance The Green Broker Trade Risk
BizCover
This award acknowledges insurance companies, underwriting agencies, brokerages and independent adjusting firms with a proven track record of providing their clients with superior support. Whether it is providing best-in-class assistance or reducing turnaround times, customer support is essential for client satisfaction. The award is based on performance over the 12 months from 1 January to 31 December 2023. It recognises the industry player that has mastered that service and is number one on all fronts. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Award is open to insurers, underwriting agencies, brokerages and independent adjusting firms • Excellence Awardees are asked to provide details on how they go the extra mile to provide excellent customer support in all areas, from sales to claims service • Criteria for judges include interpersonal communication strategies, and telephone and face-to-face service • Awardees must show innovation in the use of technology and within processes, including contact centres, loyalty management, chatbots and conversation AI
allinsure Ansvar Insurance BizCover Stella Insurance
Philanthropy & Community Service - CSR
This award recognises the organisation whose outstanding contribution of time, leadership and financial support over a sustained period of time, beyond normal expectations, has made significant impacts on the receiving causes or communities. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Open to any organisation within the insurance space • Major philanthropy and community service programs or initiatives over the 12 months from 1 January to 31 December 2023 • Impact on local, national or international causes or communities • Contribution in dollar and/or time figures • Overall commitment to philanthropy and community service • Testimonials from beneficiaries or partners
Ansvar Insurance BizCover Stella Insurance
allinsure
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, the brokerage must be independently branded and headquartered in Australia. The award is based on its performance over the 12 months from 1 January to 31 December 2023. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Client retention • Customer service proposition • Financial results, including total revenue, percentage of new business, and growth in client and staff numbers • Staff development and retention • The business’ value proposition and strategy around stakeholder engagement The winner of this category becomes an Excellence Awardee for Australian Brokerage of the Year.
Imperium Insurance and Financial Solutions Insurance HQ
Lockmor Insurance Brokers
Insurance Lab
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 (license holders or authorised representatives) and support staff. To be eligible your brokerage must be independently branded and headquartered in Australia. Based on performance over the past 12 months – 1 January 2023 – 31 December 2023. When judging this category, the following criteria will be considered: • Client retention • Customer service proposition • Financial results including total revenue, percentage of new business and growth in client and staff numbers • Staff development and retention • The business’ value proposition and strategy around stakeholder engagement The winner of this category will become a excellence awardee for Australian Brokerage of the Year.
National Insurance Brokers VIM Cover
CHU Underwriting Agencies Clover Insurance Emergence Insurance GT Insurance MECON Insurance Underwriting Agencies of Australia
This award recognises the best underwriting agency operating in Australia, based on its performance over the 12 months from 1 January to 31 December 2023. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Business achievements in the insurance intermediary channel, including but not limited to coverage, service levels and turnaround times (claims and new business) • Calendar-year growth and market share in the insurance industry • Service innovations, including but not limited to technology, broker communications and training and development • Overall support of and contribution to the insurance intermediary channel • Demonstration of a positive impact on the wider community
Blue Zebra Insurance
This award recognises the best underwriting agency operating in Australia, based on its performance over the 12 months from 1 January to 31 December 2023. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Business achievements in the insurance intermediary channel, including but not limited to coverage, service levels and turnaround times (claims and new business) • Calendar-year growth and market share in the insurance industry • Service innovations, including but not limited to technology, broker communications, training and development • Overall support of and contribution to the insurance intermediary channel • Demonstration of positive impact on the wider community
Agile Underwriting Services
Aimee Henderson, Grace Insurance Shelagh Bock, GT Insurance Tanushree Arora-Sopori, Imperium Insurance and Financial Solutions
Claire Burke
This award of excellence goes to the outstanding female trailblazer in the insurance industry whose astounding personal and professional achievements have earned them a place among the industry’s best. It is based on their performance over the 12 months from 1 January to 31 December 2023. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Professional accomplishments in the last five years (business initiatives in which the nominee played a critical role, new business brought to the company, innovative ideas, etc.) • Demonstrate promotion, influence and championing of women within the insurance industry • Leadership of professional associations • Other relevant accolades and accomplishments (charitable work, accomplishments outside the industry, etc.)
This award of excellence goes to the outstanding female trailblazer in the insurance industry whose astounding personal and professional achievements have earned them a place among the industry’s best. The award is based on their performance over the 12 months from 1 January to 31 December 2023. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Professional accomplishments in the last five years (business initiatives in which the nominee played a critical role, new business brought to the company, innovative ideas, etc.) • Demonstrate promotion, influence and championing of women within the insurance industry • Leadership of professional associations • Other relevant accolades and accomplishments (charitable work, accomplishments outside the industry, etc.)
This award for excellence recognises the outstanding young insurance broker in the insurance industry who has shown the highest potential for greater leadership. They will have excelled at pushing the envelope with innovation and growth, garnering industry attention and the respect of peers. The award is based on the broker's performance over the 12 months from 1 January to 31 December 2023. To be eligible, nominees had to be aged 40 or younger as of 31 December 2023. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Open to any insurance broker aged 40 or younger • Calendar-year growth in number of clients, policies written, new business • Overall approach to business development, client service, client education and relationship management, reflected in business success • Use of technology, marketing/branding and innovation in business strategy • Relevant achievements over the 12-month period (including accolades, courses/certifications completed, speaking engagements, active efforts to raise education, press features, etc.)
Hayden Clarke, PSC AMGI Lara Morgan, allinsure Skie Mitchell, Tasmanian Insurance Brokers Tim Hardy, MGA Insurance Group Canberra
PSC Insurance Brokers
Gareth Downie
This award for excellence recognises the outstanding young insurance broker in the insurance industry who has shown the highest potential for greater leadership. They have excelled at pushing the envelope with innovation and growth, garnering industry attention and the respect of peers. The award is based on their performance over the 12 months from 1 January to 31 December 2023. To be eligible, nominees must have been aged 40 or younger as of 31 December 2023. When judging this category, the following criteria are considered: • Open to any insurance broker aged 40 or younger • Calendar-year growth in number of clients, policies written and new business • Overall approach to business development, client service, client education and relationship management, reflected in business success • Use of technology, marketing/branding and innovation in business strategy • Relevant achievements over the 12-month period (including accolades, courses/certifications completed, speaking engagements, active efforts to raise education, press features, etc.)
This is the highest honour at the Insurance Business Australia Awards. This award recognises and celebrates a leading figure who has contributed much to the advancement of the insurance industry in Australia. Though there are no defined parameters, this award acknowledges someone with an established history and reputation of distinguished service to the insurance profession. They have exhibited leadership and provided inspiration to others in the sector and their own workplace, while putting the interests of the industry at the top of their priorities throughout their career. There are no finalists/Excellence Awardees for this category. Nominations were evaluated by the shortlisting team, and the recipient of this award was revealed at the Insurance Business Awards.
This is the highest honour at the Insurance Business Australia Awards. This award recognises and celebrates a leading figure who has contributed much to the advancement of the insurance industry in Australia. Though there are no defined parameters, this award acknowledges someone with an established history and reputation of distinguished service to the insurance profession. They have exhibited leadership and provided inspiration to others in the sector and their own workplace, while putting the interests of the industry at the top of their priorities throughout their career. There are no finalists/Excellence Awardees for this category. Nominations are evaluated by the shortlisting team, and the recipient of this award is revealed at the Insurance Business Awards.
Roderick Insurance Brokers
Keith Roderick
This award recognises the most outstanding brokerage operation in Australia. The Excellence Awardees in this category comprise the winners of the brokerage award categories: - Small Brokerage - Medium Brokerage - Large Brokerage This category was not open for nominations. Excellence Awardees were announced on the night.
This award recognises the most outstanding brokerage operation in Australia. The Excellence Awardees in this category comprise the winners of the brokerage award categories: - Small Brokerage - Medium Brokerage - Large Brokerage This category is not open for nominations. Excellence Awardees are announced on the night.
Insurance Lab Trade Risk
