WELCOME TO 2023

Welcome to 2023, a year that I believe has limitless potential to create new opportunities. For the first time in many years, there are glimpses of clear skies ahead. While there are challenges on the economic front, with high inflation, rising energy costs and resultant rising interest rates, the role of the broker will be more critical in working closely with insurers and underwriting agencies to ensure the right protection is in place for clients, at the most appropriate price. Offsetting these economic challenges is a levelling out in many markets, a relatively clear regulatory environment, evolving technology and the opportunity to think differently.

From a NIBA perspective, strategic thinking comes from the NIBA Board, and I am always appreciative of the voluntary dedication and commitment of all NIBA Directors to the stewardship of NIBA’s strategy and corporate governance. While diverse in their representation, NIBA Directors have a reputation for leaving their brand at the door.

On Thursday 23 February, we will hold the Annual General Meeting followed by a Board meeting where we will see a changing of the guard in terms of NIBA Directors and leadership.

None could be more exemplary than our outgoing President Dianne Phelan who has overseen one of the most transformative periods in NIBA’s history. Di has been an inspiration and I couldn’t think of a better President to initiate me into the NIBA community. Her unwavering commitment to ensuring that NIBA and brokers are represented positively in the public arena, as best as possible is invaluable. Importantly. the commitment of Di and the current NIBA Board to proactively sets the standards to ensure the longevity of our profession is undeniable.

I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge Di, and on behalf of all NIBA members, thank her for her contribution to NIBA as President, and remain thankful that she will retain her position on the NIBA Board.

We will also see QLD Divisional Director, Heather Peirano, step down after six years on the NIBA Board. Heather has always been forthright and offered practical insights, particularly in relation to the nuances of the Queensland market. We thank Heather for her valuable contribution.

One of the new faces on the Board will be Lynette Walsh, representing Aon. Lynette joins the Board to replace Eric Harris, who after 10 years, retired from the NIBA Board at the end of last year. Eric made a significant contribution to the NIBA Board including serving as President from 2019 to 2021 in what would have been a challenging period, navigating NIBA through the uncertainty of the pandemic, while balancing his own role at Aon over different time zones. Eric was always an active participant and offered