WTW Property and Casualty Account Director Sally Coulton and Thompson Insurance Account Manager William Thompson have won this year’s National Insurance Brokers Association (NIBA) awards for Queensland, recognising excellence in the broking profession.

Ms Coulton was named Queensland Broker of the Year today at the annual NIBA gala lunch at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. She competed against finalists Aon Team Leader Vanessa Hilton and Nutrien Ag Solutions Divisional Insurance Manager North Queensland Rebecca Gilbert.

Mr Thompson was named Queensland Young Broker of the Year. He competed against Collective Insurance Brokers Queensland Branch Manager Alison Morrissey and Allegiant IRS Senior Account Manager Cormack Hankinson.

“We congratulate Sally and William and would like to acknowledge all the finalists who demonstrated a commitment to professionalism and ongoing improvement,” NIBA CEO Philip Kewin said.

“The calibre of professionals in this awards process is outstanding and is a true testament to the skills and professionalism of the broking industry.”

The pair will compete for national honours against regional winners in NSW/ACT, SA/NT, WA and Victoria/Tasmania.

The national Broker of the Year receives the Stephen Ball Memorial Award, which is sponsored by QBE, while the national Young Professional Broker of the Year is awarded the Warren Tickle Memorial Award and joins sponsor Vero's prestigious Young Brokers Alumni Program.

Those winners will be announced in October.

“Sally has demonstrated a strong commitment to client advocacy and high-quality customer service at Willis Towers Watson, and we commend her for her exceptional broking achievements,” QBE Australia Pacific GM Partnerships – Business Lorelle Hillman said.

Vero State Distribution Manager Queensland Peter Roberts said Mr Thompson was a true advocate for his clients and has shown a strong commitment to the ongoing professional development and personal wellbeing of his staff.

“Vero is a firm believer in nurturing the next generation of broking leaders, which is why we will continue to support young professionals like William,” he said.

Earlier today, underwriters and insurers gathered at the 2022 NIBA/UAC Underwriting Expo.

The NIBA Queensland Breakfast seminar was also held today with a panel featuring NIBA President Dianne Phelan, Mr Kewin and Crucial Insurance & Risk Advisors Broker Alishia Oliver, who was last year’s Queensland Young Broker of the Year.

They answered questions on the 2022 Insurance Brokers Code of Practice in a discussion facilitated by Chair of the NIBA Queensland Committee Steven Hill.