To say that Steadfast Group subsidiary Regional Insurance Brokers (RIB) is committed to expanding across Queensland is putting it lightly.
In May, RIB announced its union with Austcover effective July. This was followed by a merger reveal with Joe Vella Insurance Brokers (JVIB) in June. Insurance Business recently caught up with the group to see how the changes have panned out.
Prior to the business combinations with its Steadfast peers, Mackay-founded RIB was being manned by nearly 100 people in more than 10 regional offices. Joining forces with Austcover meant the arrival of 50 colleagues; JVIB, a further 32.
The expansion also saw RIB managing director Tim Mathieson take the helm as chief executive, while former Austcover CEO Maria Parry (pictured) now serves as chief operating officer. JVIB founder and MD Joe Vella, meanwhile, retains his position.
Parry, whose COO role took effect on July 01, told Insurance Business: “Austcover, Regional, and Joe Vella & Associates will continue to operate with their existing brands. It is a House of Brands strategy.”
In her new position, Parry said the biggest consideration will be culture and client experience, which she believes are key. “We want our staff to feel valued and we want our clients to have an exceptional experience every time,” asserted the chief operating officer.
High up on the agenda, as well, is streamlining operational efficiencies.
Mathieson previously said that it’s “a great opportunity” to expand their broker network across Queensland and provide real value to clients. With the mergers, the CEO is looking forward to delivering greater synergies and opportunities for employees and customers alike.
