SPOTLIGHT / Meet the state finalists of the 2026 Young Broker of the Year Awards
Young brokers are inheriting the profession at a pivotal moment. What kind of broker do you want to be in ten years, and what are you doing now to get there? In ten years, I want to be known as a trusted strategic advisor rather than just a broker — someone my clients rely on not only for placement, but for insight, judgement and guidance through complex and evolving risks. The fundamentals of broking — relationships, technical expertise and advocacy — will remain, but the way we deliver value is already changing. With rapid advancements in technology, data and emerging risks, I want to be at the forefront of that evolution, using data-led insights to anticipate client needs and challenge the status quo. To get there, I'm building deep technical expertise across financial lines through ongoing professional development, strengthening my commercial acumen and deliberately seeking exposure to more complex placements. Equally important, I'm investing in relationships — with clients, insurers and the broader industry — because trust and credibility are what define long-term success. What does becoming a finalist of the 2026 Young Broker of the Year mean to you? It is certainly a wonderful recognition of my career so far, and it has strengthened my passion for the industry. To be included among such dedicated and talented brokers makes the recognition that much more meaningful. Going through this process has helped reinforce how I operate as a broker and identify areas for ongoing development. It is also a recognition of the broader broking community that has supported and shaped me — this industry is built on collaboration, and I've been fortunate to learn from experienced mentors, supportive colleagues and strong insurer relationships. Being part of this community, particularly through initiatives like the NIBA Young Professionals network, has reinforced the importance of giving back and supporting the next generation. For me, this recognition is not just individual — it reflects the collective strength and culture of the profession, which I'm proud to contribute to and help carry forward. “In ten years, I want to be known as a trusted strategic advisor rather than just a broker, someone my clients rely on not only for placement, but for insight, judgement and guidance through complex and evolving risks.”
Emily Booth, AON QLD State Finalist
How did you get started in the insurance broking profession? My career in insurance broking began somewhat unexpectedly in 2009, shortly after finishing Year 12. While searching for a job that offered stability and structure, I was accepted into a business administration traineeship at a local insurance brokerage — and quickly learned the significant value a broker carries. As a naturally organised, methodical person who cares deeply about others, broking aligned perfectly with who I am. After moving into a claims role early in my career, I learned first- hand the impact a committed broker can make. I was honoured by the privilege of genuinely caring for people when it mattered most, and that motivated me to pursue what has become a very fulfilling career. Over twelve years at that brokerage, I worked across various roles, gaining invaluable knowledge while completing my Tier 2, Tier 1 and Diploma of Financial Services (Insurance Broking). Tech and AI is reshaping how brokers work. Where do you see it adding value and what do you think will always need the human touch? Insurance broking, in my view, is underpinned by trust — and trust is earned through genuine human interaction: credibility, empathy, consistency, reliability and meaningful personal relationships. These are qualities technology simply cannot replace. That said, I see real value in tech and AI as tools for brokers: reducing admin tasks, streamlining processes, improving data entry and creating consistency in documentation. Ultimately, this frees us to spend more time with clients rather than on routine work. But while tech and AI will be important in enhancing efficiencies, they will not replace the human element of broking — particularly at claim time, where clients need empathy, reassurance and professional guidance. Amy Smith, Ausure Cairns Insurance Brokers QLD State Finalist
How did you get started in the insurance broking profession?
While I studied both film and business at university, it was my business degree that ultimately shaped my career path. Joining Aon's graduate program gave me broad exposure to the insurance industry — I rotated across teams and worked with clients ranging from SME through to large corporates, which highlighted the impact brokers can have in supporting businesses to manage risk and grow with confidence. I was drawn to financial lines early in my career, as it sits at the intersection of law, finance and corporate governance — areas that strongly aligned with my interests. The complexity of these risks and the role broking plays in helping businesses navigate them is what motivated me to pursue a long-term career in the profession. Tech and AI is reshaping how brokers work. Where do you see it adding value and what do you think will always need the human touch? Technological advancement is not new to insurance. From paper-based transactions to computers, email and now digital platforms, brokers have continually adapted — leveraging technology to enhance efficiency and deliver better outcomes. Artificial intelligence represents the next evolution in that progression. It has the potential to streamline processes, enhance analytical capability and improve the consistency of outcomes. But it should be seen as an enabler, not a replacement. The human elements — judgement, empathy, nuanced understanding — remain fundamental to broking. While AI can learn and optimise, it cannot replicate the trust, relationships and contextual insight that experienced brokers bring to their clients.
20 / INSURANCE ADVISER JUNE/JULY 2026
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