McLardy McShane quintet attend NIBA Convention in Adelaide

Four members of McLardy McShane represented the Company at the NIBA Convention in Adelaide this week.

Richard Davies (National Manager - AR Network & Partnerships), Shaneika Sutherland (National Development Manager), Tracy Scarella (National Compliance Manager), Taylor Burstow (Branch Manager – McLardy McShane Brisbane) and Verity Tonkin (Systems & Support) were all in attendance at the Convention, which focused on such topics as emerging insure tech, the evolving landscape of insurance and consumer expectations, the current trends and challenges in handling financial complaints, and much more.

The Convention also boasted an impressive array of presenters including Hon Stephen Jones MP (Assistant Treasurer, Minister of Finance), Shane Fitzsimmons (former Commissioner of NSW Rural Fire Service), David Locke (CEO of AFCA) and Andrea Clarke (journalist and author).

Davies said the event presented a valuable opportunity to catch up with those within the McLardy McShane network, but also insurers, underwriters and other key partners.

“We’re obviously a business that prides itself on our relationships and we always welcome the opportunity to spend time with those we really enjoy dealing with,” Davies said.

“It’s also a great opportunity for our people to meet new people, form new relationships, and enhance their network.

“You always walk away from events such as the NIBA Convention with plenty of learnings and gain some valuable personal and professional development.”

A “powerful” keynote address from the former Commissioner of NSW Rural Fire Service Shane Fitzsimmons, who reflected on the Black Summer bushfires of 2019 and 2020, was one of Davies’ key takeaways from the three-day Convention.

Fitzsimmons discussed how his extensive experience in emergency management and leadership skills came to the fore in the crisis, but also made mention of the significant role the insurance industry played throughout that tragic period.

“Shane was vocal about the important role insurance brokers play in not only ensuring their clients are protected, but also helping them navigate through disaster periods and helping them rebuild their lives,” Davies said.

“He also put a big emphasis on the importance of building relationships, trust, and confidence.”

Davies said journalist Andrea Clarke’s presentation was also insightful, touching on the importance of adaptability in the current global climate.

“She talked through the importance of embracing change, our ability to negotiate change, and create value within our organisations,” Davies said.

“In particular, she discussed leadership in today’s world at length – and what leadership might look like in the future.

“It was clear that all leaders within our industry will need to be prepared to evolve, adapt, and embrace change as we move towards the future.”