Steadfast Group's Nick Cook takes helm as NIBA president

The National Insurance Brokers Association (NIBA) has announced the appointment of Steadfast Group’s Nick Cook (pictured) as its new president following its Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Sydney.

Cook takes over from Gary Okely of JLT Public Sector, a division of Marsh, who has completed his term as president but will remain on the board as a director.

NIBA’s new president

Cook acknowledged his new role, stating: “I am honoured to be appointed as NIBA president. I look forward to working closely with the NIBA board, our key partners, and industry stakeholders in building upon the great work under Garyʼs leadership, advocating on behalf of our members and the interests of brokers across Australia.”

Commenting on the leadership appointment, Okely said: “Thank you for the privilege of allowing me to serve as your president. I look forward to working with Nick Cook and the board to ensure NIBA continues to deliver as the ‘one voiceʼ of the broking profession.”

NIBA board for 2025 

Rebecca Wilson has been named vice president. Meanwhile, Greg Mullins from Envest Group and Brett Piggott from Willis Temby Insurance Brokers have joined the board, with Piggott representing Western Australia.

The board members for the upcoming term are: 

• President: Nicholas Cook (Steadfast Group);
• Vice president: Rebecca Wilson (New South Wales/Australian Capital Territory representative); and
• Directors:

• Ben Bessell (AUB Group);
• Steven Hill (Queensland representative);
• Greg Mullins (Envest Group);
• Gary Okely (Marsh);
• Brett Piggott (Western Australia representative);
• Dianne Phelan (South Australia/Northern Territory representative);
• Stella Pruscino (Victoria/Tasmania representative);
• Mark Saunderson (Gallagher);
• Greg Vlahos (WTW); and
• Lynette Walsh (Aon).

NIBA CEO Richard Klipin welcomed the new leadership team.

“I would like to welcome Nick as the new NIBA president and Rebecca Wilson as the incoming vice president. I also extend a warm welcome to Greg Mullins, representing Envest Group, and Brett Piggott from Willis Temby Insurance Brokers, appointed as NIBAʼs Western Australian representative to the board,” he said.

He also acknowledged Okely’s contributions during his tenure.

“On behalf of our members, I would like to thank Gary for his contribution to NIBA as the president and the significant impact he has made during his tenure. We are delighted that Gary will continue on the board as the immediate past president, providing his invaluable insights, guidance, and leadership,” Klipin said.

With the new leadership team in place, NIBA has set its strategic priorities for 2025, focusing on advocacy, regulatory engagement, and strengthening professional standards in the insurance broking industry.