Brokers honoured at awards

The UK Broker Awards on 11 September saw nearly 500 movers and shakers from the broking community come together to celebrate the achievements of top insurance brokers.

Now in its 16th year, the standard of competition at the awards - hosted by sister title Insurance Age - was stronger than ever proving once again the vibrant state of the profession in these challenging economic times.

The event, compered by comedian Sean Lock, was held at The Troxy in East London. Guests enjoyed fine corporate dining followed by a casino-themed party.

Ian Gosden, managing director of Wells-based broker Higos Insurance, was chosen by an independent panel of industry experts as Broker Manager of the Year. Speaking about his award, which was sponsored by PB, he was keen to share the accolade with his staff. He said: "It was recognition by my peers which is exciting and recognition of the team with me who have to do the work - I've got a damned good team!"

Alec Finch, non-executive chairman at AFL Insurance Brokers and former chairman of Alec Finch Group, won the prestigious Achievement Award and praised broking's strength.

"It's a great business that doesn't get the recognition it deserves. In terms of the day to day corporate broking and international business, the intellectual challenges and working with many different types of clients and the competitive nature of the industry is what makes it very interesting and rewarding," he said.

He continued: "The challenge is to broadcast success worldwide, especially to universities that broking is an exciting and rewarding profession. I've had a tremendous time and met some special people in the industry."