NIBA has a new president

Gary Okely (pictured above) is the new president of the intermediated insurance industry’s peak body. A media release from the National Insurance Brokers Association (NIBA) said Okely, who is head of JLT Public Sector for JLT Risk Solutions, replaces Dianne Phelan whose term has ended.

“It is very humbling to be appointed as the president of NIBA,” said Okely. “I feel privileged to be able to work with Phil [NIBA CEO Phil Kewin] and the NIBA board to continue the great work done by Di [Dianne Phelan] and Eric Harris before her.”

In a NIBA media release, CEO Phil Kewin paid tribute to Phelan.

“On behalf of all NIBA members, I would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge Di for her significant contribution to NIBA as president and we remain thankful that she will retain her position on the NIBA board,” he said.

NIBA also announced the appointment Steadfast’s Nick Cook as the new vice president. Cook said he was “truly honoured to be appointed.”

New NIBA divisional directors were also voted in by members. Steven Hill from Capital Innovation Insurance is Queensland’s new director. Jordyn Gilbert from Lockton-Zenith Health & Community Services will direct the body’s Western Australia division.

Aon’s Lynette Walsh was appointed as NIBA’s International director. Walsh replaces Eric Harris who retired from the Board last year after a decade including a presidential term from 2019 to 2021.