Alyssa Sanfilippo, a former lawyer turned insurance broker, has been named the 2026 Vero Young Broker of the Year, marking a significant milestone in an industry currently grappling with a severe shortage of early-career talent. The award was presented at the National Insurance Brokers Association (NIBA) Convention on the Gold Coast, recognizing Sanfilippo’s exceptional initiative in navigating complex client needs and her deep dedication to the profession.
Sanfilippo’s win arrives at a critical juncture for the insurance sector. New research from NIBA’s Data to Direction report reveals that brokers under the age of 30 represent only 11% of the total workforce. This figure is stagnant, matching the percentage of brokers aged 60 and over, while the median age of a professional in the industry sits at 44.
The report suggests that the insurance sector is effectively “recruiting late.” Many professionals, like Sanfilippo, transition into broking at a mid-career stage, a trend attributed to a historic lack of clear early-career pathways. This demographic imbalance is particularly concerning given that 85% of brokerages are actively pursuing growth strategies, with some firms even acquiring entire teams simply to secure necessary expertise and established client relationships.
“Alyssa stood out for her initiative and commitment to finding innovative solutions for her clients, which is a hallmark of outstanding brokers,” said Lisa Harrison, chief executive of commercial and personal injury at Vero.
Sanfilippo, who hails from the Lockton team, has benefited from the firm’s concerted effort to buck industry hiring trends. Lockton has notably launched an “Ignite Cohort” for staff aged 35 and under, alongside intensive leadership and mentoring programs. Earlier this year, Lockton Pacific CEO Marcus Pearson stated that the firm aims to grow its local headcount by 20%, an aggressive stance at a time when many competitors are scaling back their workforces.
The national competition was fierce, with Sanfilippo emerging from a pool of five state finalists from four different firms. Her selection followed a rigorous process that included a national panel interview and a unique community-focused initiative. As part of the award’s development program, finalists traveled to Fitzroy Crossing in Western Australia to connect with local community recovery efforts. They also selected the recipient of a $25,000 Vero community grant, choosing the Harcourt Football Netball Club in Victoria. The club has served as a vital recovery hub following the devastating January 2026 bushfires, which resulted in nearly 5,000 insurance claims.
For her achievement, Sanfilippo receives a $10,000 professional development package. As the industry continues to search for ways to attract younger talent, her success serves as a high-profile case study for the value of recruiting professionals with diverse, cross-industry backgrounds.
Disclaimer: This content is auto-generated for informational purposes only.
Source: Read Original News
