BMS Australia (BMS), an independent specialist insurance and reinsurance broker, has announced the addition of Dianne Riopelle as a client manager in its energy team, further solidifying its position in the renewables, power, and energy sectors.
Riopelle (pictured) will report to Ben Humphries, head of power and energy in Australia.
The brokerage said this move reflects its strategy to capitalise on market opportunities in these growing sectors.
Riopelle brings a diverse background with experience advising clients in both Australian and North American markets. Her expertise spans Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), hydro and pumped storage, and nuclear refurbishment.
In her new role, Riopelle will contribute her global expertise to assist clients managing regulated energy networks, including essential transmission and distribution systems.
“I am thrilled to join BMS Australia at such an exciting juncture for the business. The company’s trajectory and the opportunities within the renewables, power, and energy sectors are truly inspiring. I was drawn to BMS because it offers a fantastic opportunity to leverage my knowledge and experience to drive the growth of our specialty and support our clients in navigating this dynamic and evolving space at a critical time for the sector. I am also excited to be part of a team that not only leads in innovation but also fosters a collaborative and people-first culture,” she said.
In addition to Riopelle, Toby Lucas joins the team as a client executive.
Lucas, who previously worked at Marsh, recently graduated from Queensland University of Technology (QUT) with a bachelor’s degree in business management, focusing on international business and marketing.
Since its inception, the BMS energy practice has grown significantly, representing several major renewable developers and asset owners across Australia. The team provides comprehensive support throughout the lifecycle of projects, from early-stage development to construction and operation.
Commenting on the new members of the energy team, Humphries delved into the practice’s growth in the past four years.
“In the four short years since starting our Australian energy practice, we have grown to become one of Australia’s leading specialist brokers in this important industry sector, working with some of Australia’s largest developers to help them deliver on their ambitions. As we continue to grow our energy team, Dianne’s appointment provides us with a deep and respected skillset as well as much needed additional capacity to allow us to grow our business further still, and to continue to deliver on the promises that we make to our valued clients,” he said. “We are incredibly proud of the business we are building at BMS, and in particular in the quality of talent in people like Dianne and Toby that we are able to attract.”
Both Riopelle and Lucas will be based in Brisbane and will work with clients across Australia. Their appointments come on the heels of the appointment of BMS Group’s new group chief financial officer and executive director.
