Lloyd’s executive Keith Stern will join the judging panel for the Valerie Baker Memorial Award, it has been announced.

The award, which recognises excellence in professional practice in the general insurance intermediary sector, is open to all Australian brokers and underwriters and the winner receives a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Lloyd’s of London.

Stern spent 10 years as Lloyd’s country manager in Australia before returning to the UK in 2010 and becoming the Lloyd’s regional manager for the UK and Ireland.

Sheila Baker, managing director of Gold Seal who sponsor the award alongside Steadfast, said that Stern’s experience in the Australian and international insurance market adds to the stature of the award.

“It is great to have someone of Keith’s calibre join the panel.

"His knowledge of the Australian market, as well as Lloyd’s in the UK, gives him a great insight. We have had some strong entries and are looking forward to another year of entries showcasing the best of Australian insurance intermediary talent.”

Not only will the winner receive an expenses-paid trip to London but will meet with senior managers at Lloyd’s of London and will be mentored by 2014 winner, Belinda Scott.

Applications for the award close on February 6.