Consolidated Insurance Agencies (CIA) has announced the acquisition of Victorian brokerage Wilkinson Insurance Brokers.

CIA, which is part of the Steadfast Group, says it became clear the businesses would be a good fit after negotiations were sparked by a conversation between Director Michael Wilkinson and Steadfast MD and CEO Robert Kelly.

“Michael had advised his retirement plans to Robert Kelly, and Robert believed that the Wilkinson Insurance Brokers business would be a good fit for CIA given our experience in successfully integrating the operations of retiring brokers into the CIA business,” a statement from CIA says.

“After the initial meeting it was apparent that both CIA and Wilkinson Insurance Brokers had a very similar values and ethos.

“We were impressed by the business that Michael has built over many years, and the relationships that Michael and his team had built with customers, insurers and others business partners.”

Wilkinson Insurance Brokers is CIA’s fourth acquisition following the purchase of Berwick Insurance Group in 2013, PMH Insurance Brokers 2016 and Armbro Insurance Brokers in 2017.

“The combined strength of this now larger organisation will allow us to develop all of the strengths from both teams, allowing us to strengthen insurer relationships, and create future opportunities for all our stakeholders,” CIA Director Nathan Woodhead said.

Mr Wilkinson told insuranceNEWS.com.au that he would continue to work with the brokerage full-time for a year, and part-time beyond that.

He says looking after his eight members of staff, based in Lilydale, was a priority throughout.

“I’ve run my own business for the best part of 40 years and there comes a time in life to move on,” he said.