Three Adelaide brokerages have come together to form a “broking powerhouse” with decades of experience in the general insurance industry.

Steadfast Brecknock, Newmarket Grandwest and IC Frith & Associates – all Steadfast brokerages – have officially united under the banner of SUREWiSE.

Peter Blanco, formerly of Steadfast Brecknock, is stepping into the CEO role at SUREWiSE, while Erin Bernhardt, formerly MD of Newmarket Grandwest, will be the new COO.

The duo will lead a combined team of 50 people while John Marini, formerly of IC Frith & Associates, will maintain the position of executive director.

Blanco said joining forces under one brand made good business sense and enabled the business to position itself for future growth, innovation and development.

“For our clients, we’re able to provide an even greater depth of expertise, capability and support, exceptional buying power, and an experienced in-house claims team that will manage and settle claims quickly,” said Blanco.

He also added that the merger is a “good news story” for staff, who will be able to leverage a wider range of opportunities.

“Creating SUREWiSE affords them new learning, development and career opportunities in an environment where people are valued, the culture is friendly and supportive, and each person is encouraged to do their best,” he said.

The new company will operate from its Hindmarsh Square and Flinders Street offices in Adelaide’s CBD, with trading to start under the name SUREWiSE from 1 August 2019.