Gary Okely has been appointed President of the National Insurance Brokers Association (NIBA) after the departure of Dianne Phelan, whose term concluded today.

Mr Okely has served as NIBA vice president since early last year and was replaced in that role today by Steadfast EGM Partner, Broker Services & Agencies Nick Cook.

Ms Phelan, who remains on the NIBA board as a director, said Mr Okely has “great ideas to help our industry progress” and she is excited by the prospect of supporting him.

“We’ve achieved a lot in the past few years, and we need to continue the work that began, not only in my time as President but from Eric Harris before me.”

NIBA CEO Phil Kewin congratulated the new appointments and acknowledged Ms Phelan for her “significant contribution” to NIBA as president.

"We remain thankful that she will retain her position on the NIBA board,” Mr Kewin said.

Also joining the NIBA Board are Brisbane-based Capital Innovation Insurance Group Director Steven Hill, who takes the role of Queensland Divisional Director, and Perth-based Lockton-Zenith Health & Community Services Senior Account Manager Jordyn Gilbert, who becomes WA Divisional Director, replacing Ward Dedman who retired from the board a year ago.

Mr Hill replaces Heather Peirano who has stepped down from the NIBA board after six years and was thanked for her valuable contribution and insights.

Mr Okely, who is JLT Risk Solutions Head of Public Sector, Pacific, said it was “very humbling” to be appointed President.

“I feel privileged to be able to work with Phil and the NIBA board to continue the great work done by Di and Eric Harris before her," he said.