Major general insurance broker network Steadfast Group has announced significant developments within its Australasian networks, broker, and insurer services division.
Kasun Jayaratne has been named general manager of AU network, broker, risk and insurer services, a newly created role.
He will lead the broker, risk, and insurer services teams, with a focus on enhancing the company’s service offerings and relationships in the Australian broker market.
Jayaratne joined Steadfast in May 2023 as head of strategic execution, where he collaborated with COO Nigel Fitzgerald on strategic development.
In his new role, he will report to Nick Cook, executive general manager, Australasian networks, broker, and insurer services.
Additionally, Bronwyn Brownlee will take on the role of risk services national client service manager.
Goldseal, the education and compliance team known for its learning hub, compliance, and training programs, will also be incorporated into the division.
Sheila Baker, executive general manager – compliance and customer experience, will continue to lead the Goldseal team and report to Cook.
Steadfast Group founder, managing director, and CEO Robert Kelly described the restructuring as a natural alignment.
“The changes to the Steadfast Australasian networks, broker, and insurer services team we have announced today, is a natural alignment and the next piece of the puzzle as we form a dynamic, holistic team who are solely focused on providing the best insurance and risk solutions to the Australasian broker markets,” he said.
ISU Group (ISU), a US-based insurance agency network acquired last year by Steadfast, recently promoted COO Dan McCarthy to CEO.
McCarthy will succeed T.J. Ryan III, who has served as CEO for 35 years and will now assume the position of vice chairman.
Samantha Hollman, international CEO at Steadfast, highlighted the importance of a seamless leadership transition.
“Dan’s appointment is a natural progression for the future of ISU and part of a carefully developed succession plan to ensure continuity and confidence in the business,” she said. “Dan has established himself as an effective executive and a visionary leader, with over 30 years of experience in finance, underwriting, claims management, and sales.
“As COO over the past 10 years, Dan has developed a deep understanding of ISU’s business and its role in the insurance distribution system and has been instrumental to the growth and development of the network over that time.”
ISU, which began as a franchise over 40 years ago, now has 230 members across more than 40 states, with partnerships with over 75 insurance carriers and wholesalers.
