Emotions ran high as the 11 winners were announced at the 3
rd annual New Zealand Insurance Industry Awards last night.
Karl Armstrong, who took out the Insurance Leader of the Year award, proved a popular choice as many in the audience rose to give the 44-year industry veteran a standing ovation.
Armstrong’s voice cracked several times during his acceptance speech as he thanked the Institute and judging panel, his company
NZI, his team and his wife Jane.
“This is an absolute privilege,” he said. “To receive this award I’m truly honoured and to be recognised as a leader within this unbelievable amazing industry.”
Another highlight of the evening was the Emerging Young Professional of the Year, won by NZI’s June Kuan.
The diminutive Kuan could have won speech of the night as her visible excitement and high emotion came close to overwhelming her several times during her speech.
The third award that went to an individual was given to
Crombie Lockwood’s manager of broking, James Shearing, who won the Broking Professional of the Year title.
MC Jon Bridges praised Shearing for his touching tribute to his wife, who he thanked for putting up with his workaholic habits.
The other big news for the brokers was
Rothbury taking out the Large Broking Company of the Year award, stopping Willis from making it three wins in a row.
Managing director
Roger Abel was thrilled to receive the award and shook the heavy trophy in the air in celebration as he returned to his team.
Read today’s newsletter for more details from the night and the full list of winners.
