Nominations for this year’s Valerie Baker Memorial Award open tomorrow.

The award for excellence in the general insurance intermediary sector was launched last year in memory of Gold Seal founder Valerie Baker. It is open to all Australian brokers and underwriting agents.

Belinda Scott, director of Melbourne-based BJS Insurance Brokers, won the inaugural award.

She has agreed to act as a mentor to this year’s finalists before the final interview process. One finalist will also be eligible to receive a year’s business mentoring from Ms Scott.

The judging panel will be chaired by Gold Seal MD Sheila Baker and includes Lloyd’s General Representative for Australia Adrian Humphreys and former PSC CEO Gary Seymour, representing the Steadfast Group.

Ms Baker, Valerie’s sister, says she looks forward to seeing applications from the industry’s “shining lights”.

“The achievements and calibre of last year’s applicants was truly impressive,” she said.

The prize is a trip to London, including an introduction to Lloyd’s operations, a short course at the Chartered Insurance Institute and learning activities with leading underwriters and brokers.

Applications close on February 6. The winner will be announced at next year’s Steadfast Convention in Adelaide on April 18-21.

The award is sponsored by Gold Seal and the Steadfast Group.

Find more information here.