Our Senior Account Executive, Matt O’Rourke, was named Peter McCarthy CQIB Young Professional of the Year at the recent CQIB Awards in Brisbane. This highly coveted award recognises outstanding commitment and service to clients, the brokerage and the insurance industry overall. At LEA Insurance Brokers, our team could not be prouder of this young man and his career achievements. This award has recognised Matt’s determination, character and vision, and we celebrate his success.

Matt says, “To me, the Peter McCarthy Memorial Award represents principle, professionalism and ethics.” At LEA Insurance Brokers, these are the very traits that Matt applies when dealing with clients, insurers and fellow team members.

Commitment and Work Ethic for the Win!

Matt O’Rourke joined the insurance industry at the tender age of 18 in country New South Wales and quickly demonstrated his commitment and work ethic. Matt reflects on his early years, “I quickly learnt the benefit that insurance can provide to businesses, people and their financial livelihood. My focus has been on contributing not only to company growth but also fostering strong relationships and being a team player.”

This young professional has undoubtedly enjoyed a fast-tracked career. At only 22, Matt was the youngest nominee for the 2014 Austbrokers Insurance Business Young Guns Report. Seen as shaping the future of the industry, Matt was humbled to be included in this select list of Australia’s Top 30 leading brokers, insurers and young professionals.

In 2015, Matt started with us at LEA Insurance Brokers. Gaining Graduate Status in the QBE Equip Program in 2016, followed quickly by the Allianz Young Eagle Program in 2017, Matt was always keen to learn and focused heavily on his personal and professional development.

LEA’s CEO Troy Jennings believes Matt’s demonstrated character and broking skills set him in good stead for the win. Troy characterises Matt as an empathetic, trustworthy, humble and an enthusiastic person. “But, Passion would be the most appropriate word that comes to mind,” said Troy. “It is how Matt applies himself to everything he does on a day to day basis that impresses us most – the little things that he is so detailed about mean the world to our clients and us.”

Matt’s Role at LEA

As a Senior Account Executive, Matt manages an extensive portfolio made up of a loyal client base that shares an understanding of the importance of having the right insurance solution. Matt firmly believes in having risk management strategies that reflect the needs and requirements of his clients. He maintains that communication is vital when discussing the risks and benefits of a range of portfolio solutions. This communication and education focus sees Matt constantly exploring innovative insurance solutions across his portfolio to meet the ever-changing needs of his clients directly.

Cyber Risk Committee

In line with LEA’s vision to educate the industry on Cyber Risk and the evolving legislative changes in this space, Matt’s involvement has been crucial. He has taken on a leadership role within our business and currently heads up our “Cyber Committee”. This committee is charged with facilitating the ongoing education of our brokers while developing a Cyber Product with an Insurance Partner that is made available to our clients.

Passion for the industry

Having grown into the true professional that he is, Matt also believes in fostering the development of young brokers and others within the industry. Giving back is what he does. It is not uncommon to see Matt providing valuable advice to our Junior team members, facilitating a transfer of product knowledge, industry insights and training to pass on the passion he has for the industry, his clients and his work.

Congratulations Matt!