The Australasian Life Underwriting and Claims Association has announced the winners of this year’s excellence awards across 10 categories.

MLC Life Insurance northern underwriting manager for NSW and Queensland Darren Leonard took the leadership prize, and rising star honours went to Hannover Life Re’s Sean Marais.

“The annual ALUCA awards are extremely competitive and receive a high number of exceptional entries, all of which are judged by cross-industry leaders and senior life insurance professionals,” association CEO Amanda McKernan said.

“We’re extremely proud of all the deserving winners, who’ve demonstrated excellence in life insurance.”

The 10 winners are:

• Leadership: Darren Leonard – MLC Life Insurance
• Professional: June Khaw – Hannover Life Re
• Rising star: Sean Marais – Hannover Life Re
• David Mico Industry: Paul Bennell – TAL Australia
• Claims team: MLC claims management team – MLC Life Insurance 
• Underwriting team: Zurich underwriting digital solutions team – Zurich 
• Customer service team: MLC claims management team – MLC Life Insurance 
• Innovation team: Scor and Adviser Connect 
• Partnership impact team: Recovery and wellness – MLC Life /SwissRe/Wyasa 
• Best technology team: AIA Australia and Hannover Life Re