Article Summary
CGU strives to back and reward broker ambition through education and insights.
2024 NIBA Broker of the Year
Explore Terms
CGU and JAWUN Ngarrindjeri Country Immersive Experience and Capability Building Workshop
The CGU and JAWUN Ngarrindjeri Country Immersive Experience and Capability Building Workshop was a transformative three-day, three-night program aimed at fostering a deep understanding of Ngarrindjeri history and the Indigenous partner organisations driving economic growth and community prosperity in the Lower River Murray region of South Australia.
The state NIBA Broker of the Year winners embarked on a packed itinerary with the Jawun team, which included guided regional tours, cultural activities, and visits to Indigenous businesses, all the while learning about Ngarrindjeri history from local elders. The experience culminated in an unforgettable excursion to pristine Goolwa Beach with the opportunity to sample freshly cooked local produce.
Beyond cultural immersion, the program focused on enhancing the cohort’s leadership capabilities by building a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by Indigenous enterprises as they strive for economic and cultural self-determination.
On the final day, the state finalists collaborated to pitch their insurance recommendations and insights to Indigenous leaders, aiming to build on existing research into insurance in the region and support the Ngarrindjeri nation’s ambitions for their people.
The CGU and JAWUN Ngarrindjeri Country Immersive Experience and Capability Building Workshop was a deeply moving and intimate experience. It connected CGU leaders and brokers, fostering cultural understanding, enhancing leadership capabilities, and contributing to the empowerment of Indigenous businesses through ongoing collaborative education and resource development.
National Broker of the Year Prize
CGU strives to back and reward broker ambition through education and insights. The 2024 NIBA Broker of the Year will receive a 4-day executive education course at NYU Stern Business School during the Autumn class period April – June 2025.
The prize includes return economy airfares and seven nights’ accommodation in Greenwich Village, the urban heart of New York City, conveniently located near the NYU campus. And it won’t be all work – the winning broker will also enjoy a quintessential New York experience to round out their stay before we fly them home to put their newly acquired leadership skills into practice.
Why NYU Stern?
Short executive courses at NYU Stern are designed for ambitious business professionals and high-potential managers to retool, advance, and expand their skills and knowledge in an ever-changing world. Participants come from more than 50 countries across six continents, immersing students in a diverse professional cohort that promises to stretch their thinking.
NYU Stern’s world-class faculty and over 100 years of business education back up an assurance that graduates will emerge from their intensive courses better equipped to master the challenges and opportunities of both their corporate environment and industry.
Meet the 2024 State Winners
SA/NT Winner
Will Laundy, Director at Pillar Brokerage
Will is a seasoned insurance professional who has held several broking roles in large international companies throughout his career.
Will is inspired by the ability of brokers to positively impact their clients’ circumstances in moments of great need. While the broking profession often shies away from the spotlight compared to other industries, Will firmly believes that brokers play a crucial role in their clients’ lives. He advocates for the recognition of brokers’ contributions to the economy and society at large.
Will is a strong advocate for the insurance industry, which has provided him, as well as his colleagues and friends, with diverse and rewarding career opportunities.
WA Winner
Chelsey Harris, Regional Director of EBM Insurance & Risk
Chelsey’s insurance journey began with six years in underwriting and claims, after which she transitioned into a broking role. Her dedication to expanding her insurance knowledge, enhancing client service skills, and building strong relationships with insurers is truly outstanding. She has also demonstrated a commitment to professional development by completing a Diploma in Insurance Broking.
With her extensive experience across various facets of the insurance industry, Chelsey possesses a deep understanding of her clients’ needs. Her positive interactions with insurers have not only contributed to her personal growth but have also significantly improved broking services and client focus.
VIC/TAS Winnner
Abbie Wilson, Director of National Insurance Brokers
Abbie is a dedicated professional who sought a career that would allow her to make a significant impact on people’s lives.
From humble beginnings as a broker, Abbie took a bold step in 2013 to establish her own business, driven by a desire to create positive change in the industry and provide unwavering support to her clients. Being part of a small regional community, she finds immense satisfaction in helping others navigate their insurance needs, especially during challenging times and natural disasters.
Abbie values the continuous learning and growth that the profession offers, both personally and professionally. The collaborative spirit within the industry, particularly with supportive networks like the Community Broker Network, inspires her to strive for positive change and innovation.
NSW/ACT Winner
Matthew Bates, Managing Director of Bell Partners Insurance
Following many years of leading teams in corporate entities, Matthew brought his extensive knowledge to the insurance industry. He was inspired by the opportunity to build lasting relationships with clients and make a significant impact to their lives by protecting what they value most.
Matthew’s expertise in risk assessment is a key focus. He excels at analysing complex risks and crafting comprehensive insurance strategies to effectively mitigate them. His meticulous approach and sound advice empowers clients to make informed decisions, helping them to safeguard their financial well-being.
Matthew is also a dedicated mentor for the NIBA Mentoring Program, developing the next generation of insurance professionals by sharing his wisdom and experience.
QLD Winner
Kieran Volpe, Account Executive & Area Manager for North Queensland Insurance Brokers
Kieran is a dedicated professional whose journey into the insurance industry began unexpectedly after managing a telco dealership.
Kieran is deeply passionate about supporting start-up businesses. He takes great pride in supporting young sole traders with low turnovers to evolve into thriving businesses that successfully expand to employ more people and achieve profitable growth.
Beyond his professional achievements, Kieran is committed to giving back to the community. He serves as a Board Member of the Hinchenbrook Community Support Centre, an organisation that provides essential relief for the homeless, the disadvantaged, victims of domestic violence, and distressed individuals with housing, social outings, counselling, and emergency funds.
