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WA Finalist
What are some of the attributes essential to be a good broker? To be a great broker, you need to be curious, proactive, and grounded in integrity. It starts with listening, really listening, to what your client is saying (and sometimes what they’re not). Every business is different, and our role is to understand those nuances and turn them into tailored solutions that actually work in practice, not just on paper. Resilience is also key, because insurance isn’t always smooth sailing. There will be challenges, claims, and curveballs. But the ability to stay calm, be resourceful, and advocate fiercely for your clients is what earns their trust. Communication is the glue that holds it all together; being able to explain complex matters in plain English, keep people informed, and offer peace of mind. Above all, I believe in being approachable and human. Technical skill gets you in the door, but relationships are what make you invaluable. What does becoming a finalist of the 2025 Young Broker of the Year mean to you? It’s such an honour, and honestly, a little surreal. Being named a finalist is incredibly meaningful because it reflects not just my individual efforts, but also the journey I’ve taken in building Pinnacle Insurance Brokers from the ground up. It’s a nod to the long hours, the risks, and the moments of doubt that come with starting your own business, and a reminder that every step has been worth it. I’m proud to represent Authorised Representatives and the wider broking community, especially those who are working hard behind the scenes to grow, evolve and give their clients the very best. This recognition fuels me to keep pushing, learning, and leading with heart. I hope it also shows others, especially young women in the industry, that you can chart your path, stay true to your values, and build something meaningful. “It’s easy to focus on the technical side of insurance, but the real magic happens when you pair that knowledge with empathy, integrity, and clear communication.”
MELISSA JOLLY, PINNACLE INSURANCE BROKERS
How did you get started in the insurance broking profession? It all started back in Year 10 when we did a three-hour aptitude test at school. When the results came back, ‘Insurance Broker’ was at the top of my list of ideal careers. At the time, I didn’t even know what that meant, but it stuck with me. A few years later, I landed a role with a Perth brokerage and instantly knew I was where I was meant to be. What drew me in then (and still drives me now) is the balance between technical skill and human connection. Insurance broking challenges you to problem-solve, build trust, and show up for people when they need it most. From there, my career took me to London, across international markets, and ultimately back home to launch Pinnacle Insurance Brokers. It’s been a journey, and I’m so glad that the Year 10 test knew what it was talking about! What is the most important lesson you have learnt in your career so far? The biggest lesson I’ve learnt is that people remember how you made them feel, especially in moments of stress, uncertainty, or loss. As brokers, we often meet clients at their most vulnerable: facing risk, navigating claims, or dealing with the unknown. It’s easy to focus on the technical side of insurance, but the real magic happens when you pair that knowledge with empathy, integrity, and clear communication. I’ve found that building long-term trust is never about one big gesture, it’s about consistently showing up, being transparent, and going the extra mile without being asked. It’s those small things that make a lasting impact. The relationships I’ve built over the years, many of which now feel like friendships, are proof that professionalism and genuine care don’t just co-exist; they go hand in hand.
profession, whether it be clients, assessors, underwriters or colleagues. Communication is crucial. A large component of the negotiation process with insurers will come back to how well you can communicate. You need to be able to manage your workload effectively and efficiently. Your day often doesn’t go as planned, with unexpected claims arising, new business opportunities, or insurers coming off risk etc. It’s important to give yourself plenty of time when dealing with these situations to ensure you are able to provide the best possible service to your client. Finally, have an eye for detail. One ‘small’ error could result in a major issue. It's important to carefully check policy documents and client information so that we can provide the appropriate advice to our clients. What does becoming a finalist of the 2025 Young Broker of the Year mean to you? I feel very honoured to be a finalist of the 2025 Young Broker of the Year. Over the last 14 years, I have strived to become as knowledgeable and successful in my career as I can. This profession is rewarding in so many ways, and I know and understand that being recognised as a finalist for this award is a privilege not afforded to everyone. Being a finalist has meant that I have also had the opportunity to fully reflect on my development and how important it is to remain educated, up to date and professional at all times. I can say without hesitation that my journey so far has provided nothing but fond memories of every aspect of my role in the industry. “I’m glad I took the offer of a career I’d never thought about. I’ve now paid it forward and helped recruit others into the industry who had also never thought about broking as a career option.”
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