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What challenges do you think a broker might face in 2035? Fast forward to 2035 and brokers will probably need to juggle more than ever. AI will be doing quotes, risk assessments and claims faster than you can say “renewal due,” so standing out will be about the human touch. At the same time, compliance and regulations seem destined to multiply like rabbits – keeping up will be a challenge in itself, it already is to be honest. Then there’s cyber risk: everything’s online, everything’s connected, and most people don’t truly understand how exposed they are until something goes bang. Add to that the very real increase in catastrophic natural disasters, and suddenly the role of the broker is clearer than ever, it’s about guiding people through chaos with a calm head, offering quality advice, knowing a little about a lot and practical finding solutions whilst working with busy clients. In short, the broker of 2035 will need to be part risk guru, part compliance expert, part therapist – and still make it look easy. What is your broking philosophy? Being a broker today is no longer just about finding placement and the best premium. Being a trusted strategic advisor means we need to provide insights, risk strategies and holistic advice that help clients navigate an increasingly complex world. Education is key here – not only for our clients, but also for the next generation coming into financial services and insurance industry. If we don’t pass on knowledge, skills and values, the profession risks losing the human expertise that technology can’t replace. This evolution also allows us to attract clients and new talent who genuinely value specialist advice, those who require technical risk analysis and long-term guidance, not just an online transaction. For the profession, it’s a chance to raise the bar, build trust, and secure the future of broking by investing in people – both our clients and the next wave of professionals. Brokers are evolving to become trusted strategic advisors. What does this mean for our profession? Being a broker today is no longer just about finding placement and the best premium. Being a trusted strategic advisor means we need to provide insights, risk strategies and holistic advice that help clients navigate an increasingly complex world. Education is key here – not only for our clients, but also for the next generation coming into financial services and insurance industry. If we don’t pass on knowledge, skills and values, the profession risks losing the human expertise that technology can’t replace. This evolution also allows us to attract clients and new talent who genuinely value specialist advice, those who require technical risk analysis and long-term guidance, not just
an online transaction. For the profession, it’s a chance to raise the bar, build trust, and secure the future of broking by investing in people – both our clients and the next wave of professionals. What are some lessons that you’ve learnt along the way that you wish someone told you about on day 1 of the job? If I could go back to day one, I’d start by saying: get comfortable with change, because it’s the only constant in this industry. Claims are where you truly prove your worth – policies are paper, but claims are people. Compliance and detail, which might feel tedious at first, are actually your best protection; they safeguard you and your business. And speaking of business, don’t forget that clients are people, not just policy numbers – take the time to know them and you’ll make a bigger difference than you think. Finally, never stop learning. This industry evolves quickly, and your ability to stay curious and adapt is what will set you apart. Oh, and one more – patience. There will be tears, joy and incredible experiences along the way, every up and down has a lesson to learn. Sometimes things won’t go your way, sometimes systems will crash, sometimes clients will test you. Take a deep breath, learn the lesson, take time to reflect and keep moving forward. Think Chumbawamba’s song – “you get knocked down, you get up again, no one’s ever going to keep you down”. If you were to be crowned the national Broker of the Year winner, what would that recognition mean to you? Winning NIBA Broker of the Year would be an incredible honour – not just for me, but for the team that’s supported me along the way over many many years. It would mean that the countless hours of caring for clients, prioritising work and my profession sometimes even over family, prioritising integrity, authenticity and professionalism, and striving to do the right thing have made a real impact. For me personally, it would be recognition that the way I approach my life and broking with integrity, honesty, a lot of heart, and a decent dash of humour and laughter resonates and is appreciated within in our profession. But more than that, it would give me a platform to advocate for the industry, continue with giving back to my community and the role we play in people’s lives. Of course, I’d want to celebrate the team – because no one achieves something like this alone. And finally, it would be a motivator: a reminder to keep pushing forward, keep improving, and keep showing up for clients in the way they deserve, it would help with those doubts that always float around that “I don’t deserve this, imposter syndrome, there’s so many more accomplished, clever and amazing people out there who should be here not me”, I can honestly let them go.
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