Steadfast Group founder, managing director and CEO Robert Kelly AM has been awarded the prestigious ANZIIF Lifetime Achievement Award at the 21st Australian Insurance Industry Awards.
The honour, bestowed by the Australian and New Zealand Institute of Insurance and Finance (ANZIIF), recognises individuals who have made enduring contributions to the insurance industry. Kelly, whose career spans over five decades, was acknowledged for his vision, leadership and dedication to building what is now one of the largest general insurance broker networks in Australasia.
From its beginnings in 1996 with just 43 brokers, Steadfast Group has expanded under Kelly’s leadership into a global business. The network now encompasses 645 brokerages across Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and the United States, 29 underwriting agencies, and offices in London, Greece and Paris. It also owns a 60% stake in UnisonSteadfast, a global broking network of 295 members across 113 countries.
Under Kelly’s leadership, Steadfast has also become a key innovator in insurance technology, investing in digital platforms that streamline broker operations and improve client servicing. These tools have helped independent brokerages remain competitive in an increasingly complex and regulated market, while maintaining their autonomy and local client relationships.
“This award is the sum of many people who have worked together and built an organisation that stands for innovation, resilience, and commitment to our clients and communities,” said Kelly. “It fills me with immense pride to see how our founding vision has evolved into a powerful and successful place for people to live, work and belong.”
Beyond business, Kelly is also a champion of philanthropy. He is a director of KidsXpress and an active fundraiser for initiatives like the Vinnies CEO Sleepout and Children’s Cancer Institute’s Dare to Cure challenge – raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for vulnerable communities.
In 2022, Kelly was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for his service to the insurance industry and broader community.
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