A new generation of leaders must step forward to nurture growth and secure brokers’ future, Austbrokers & IBNA Member Services (AIMS) GM Glenn Schultz says.

Speaking at the opening of the group’s annual conference on the Gold Coast last week, he said the issue of leadership “is at the very heart of our future”.

“We are a network of individual and entrepreneurial broking firms, all requiring leadership and all facing challenges,” he told the 430 delegates.

“The only certainty we have about the future is that it will be different and more complex. The need to adapt to change makes it vital to find and develop great leaders.”

Mr Schultz says the ranks of insurance brokers contain “an abundance” of individuals who have the traditional qualities of a successful leader – curiosity, insight, engagement and determination.

The tools required to adapt to change are also different and more complicated, “but ultimately more sophisticated”.

He says the growth of the direct commercial insurance market demonstrates the process of disintermediation has begun in the insurance industry, and while strong leadership is vital, brokers must also work to meet the evolving needs of their clients.

“We all understand our key differentiators are service, advice and claims assistance.”

The conference attracted a record 35 participating sponsors. Speakers included former prime minister John Howard and Australian of the year, former army lieutenant-general David Morrison.

Next year’s AIMS Conference will be held in Shanghai, China, from April 30.