AIB Insurance Brokers MD Vicki Warne is a finalist in the Telstra Queensland Business Women’s Awards.

Ms Warne, who features in the business owner category, took the leadership role after the death of her partner Glenn Skipworth in a plane crash in 2006.

She has since funded the buyback of an equity partner’s share, managed millions of dollars in debt and overseen the Maroochydore company’s growth.

Telstra says Ms Warne almost sold the business, but changed her mind to stay true to Mr Skipworth’s vision.

AIB is a large privately owned insurance broker providing retail cover as well as packages for tourism operators, childcare providers, Aboriginal and Torres Trait Island organisations, dentists, hairdressers and beauty therapists.

“Today AIB is debt-free and profitable,” Ms Warne said. “Self-doubt crept in many times but fortunately I was able to rise above it. I realised I was a survivor. I was stronger than I anticipated I could be.”

Queensland award winners will be announced on September 17 in Brisbane. The national finals will be held in Melbourne on November 14.