SPOTLIGHT / Meet the state finalists of the 2026 Broker of the Year Awards
This is where the role of the broker becomes even more important. Our value isn’t just providing information — it’s interpreting risk, understanding nuance, asking the right questions and providing trusted advice tailored to each client’s circumstances. I hope the industry embraces AI to enhance people, not replace them. Trust, empathy and human connection should always remain central to what we do. What does being a trusted adviser mean to you beyond the transaction, and how does that expertise show up when things get difficult for a client? To me, being a trusted adviser means building relationships that go far beyond annual renewals or placing policies. It’s about genuinely understanding a client’s business, the challenges they face and what matters most to them — so you can provide advice that is practical, meaningful and tailored to their needs. Trust is really built during difficult situations, particularly when claims arise or clients are dealing with uncertainty. That’s when clients need more than just technical advice — they need someone who will advocate for them, communicate clearly and guide them through the process with empathy and professionalism. One of the things I pride myself on is taking ownership in those moments. I want my clients to feel supported and reassured that someone is navigating the situation alongside them. Clients are often already stressed or overwhelmed, and being able to simplify complex issues and provide clarity can make a significant difference. That’s where the true value of broking really shows. What does becoming a finalist of the 2026 Broker of the Year mean to you? Becoming a finalist has been genuinely humbling. Going through this process has given me the opportunity to reflect on my career in a way I probably never have before. When I first started in the industry, I could never have imagined being recognised as a finalist for an award like this. Looking back, I feel deeply grateful for the opportunities I’ve had, the mentors who supported me and the relationships I’ve built along the way. One of the things that has meant the most throughout this process is realising just how many people have helped shape my career
— colleagues, mentors, insurer partners and clients. Insurance broking is very much a relationship-driven profession, and I certainly wouldn’t be where I am without those connections. More than anything, being named a finalist feels like recognition of the values I’ve tried to bring to my role every day: integrity, care, professionalism and a genuine commitment to my clients and team.
gravitate back to broking because it allows me to combine client relationships with problem-solving. That combination has never lost its appeal. What’s the biggest challenge you think the profession needs to be ready for in the near future? I see two key challenges. The first is helping clients navigate a more complex and volatile risk landscape. Risks are no longer neatly siloed so we need to provide more data-driven solutions and challenge conventional program structures by designing innovative, multinational and alternative risk solutions that align with clients’ current and emerging exposures. The second is attracting and developing young professionals. We need to demonstrate to the next generation that broking offers meaningful, long-term careers; and then invest in the technical training and client skills that will equip them to deliver. If we don’t develop the next generation, we’ll struggle to meet clients’ evolving needs, no matter the strength of today’s expertise. What does being a trusted adviser mean to you beyond the transaction, and how does that expertise show up when things get difficult for a client? For me, it means genuinely understanding a client’s strategy, risk appetite and global footprint, and acting as an extension of their risk and finance teams. When things get difficult, whether it’s a major claim, a challenging renewal or a significant change in risk profile; I focus on proactive communication and presenting clear options. I draw on my experience across different industries and leverage local and international networks to provide practical, realistic solutions. A trusted adviser is always calm under pressure, transparent about the situation and persistent in seeking the best possible outcome. Ultimately, you want clients to feel supported and informed; not overwhelmed. “A trusted adviser is always calm under pressure, transparent about the situation and persistent in seeking the best possible outcome. Ultimately, you want clients to feel supported and informed; not overwhelmed.”
“More than anything, being named a finalist feels like recognition of the values I’ve tried to bring to my role every day: integrity, care, professionalism and a genuine commitment to my clients and team.”
Laura Russo, AON WA State Finalist
How did you get started in the insurance broking profession? After graduating with a banking and finance degree during an economic downturn, I applied for any open positions. I was fortunate to be offered a role at a motor vehicle claims assessing centre, then progressed into corporate underwriting. To be honest, it was so long ago that I don’t recall exactly how I moved into my first broking role, but I remember very clearly why I have stayed. I’ve always enjoyed working directly with clients to understand their risks and provide solutions. Over the years I’ve explored other areas of the insurance industry, but I always
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