Newsletter article submitted by EBM, Australia.
Since commencing in 1975 EBM has gone from strength to strength, today they are arguably the most significant non-aligned privately owned Insurance Broking Group in Australia.
In February 2019, Ward Dedman, EBM’s Managing Director of Group Operations, was appointed as CEO and Executive Director of the EBM Group, to manage the day-to-day operations of the diverse broker group from its headquarters in Perth and network of offices across five states and four regional centres.
The appointment comes as Alan Bishop, who was instrumental in establishing the company, prepares to take a step back after 40 years at the helm. Alan will continue to provide strategic oversight and direction for the company as Executive Chairman.
“This is a significant, important and historical promotion, with Ward becoming EBM’s first-ever CEO,” Bishop said. “Ward’s primary role will be to oversee the strategic direction of EBM. He will be supported by our dedicated team of brokers and administrators and of course by me.”
Ward joined EBM 19 years ago and has held a range of executive roles within the company. He has also served at the National Insurance Brokers’ Association (NIBA) for many years, currently as director of the NIBA national board.
EBM’s executive team, meanwhile, was bolstered by the appointment of Peter McLachlan (formerly QBE) as Executive General Manager of strategy and operations, Ryan Cameron as Managing Director of Broking, Ashton George as Regional Director for WA, Ben Bowen as Regional Director of Victoria, and Chris Lane as Managing Director of CoverLink, the division that negotiates contracts on behalf of a number of insurers to offer EBM clients a range of tailor-made policies.
Peter McLachlan
Peter’s responsibilities will include the stewardship of Group Services and Injury Management and working closely alongside Jane Barry to ensure the business areas of EBM are well supported, consulted and partnered in achieving the goals of their respective Strategic Plans. Peter will report directly to Ward assisting with the development, execution and suitability of Strategic Initiatives.
Chris Lane
Chris joined EBM in 2009 as an Executive Account Manager within the newly formed BuildCover broking business (Construction and Builders Warranty) following the acquisition of the Savill Hicks WA portfolio, however just over 5 years ago he transitioned to become the founding Executive of the newly established CoverLink business area. Chris has grown the CoverLink team to its present number of 14 people, transacting just under $40m in gross written premiums across multiple products with numerous insurer markets in Australia and at Lloyd’s of London.
Ryan Cameron
Ryan has over 19 years’ experience in the insurance industry in both underwriting and insurance broker capacities. He was a former Director and Senior Partner of a well-respected mid-tier broking practice, prior to joining EBM in 2014. Ryan’s primary responsibility is for business development related to our strong growth strategy. Ryan will also reassume responsibility for Commercial and PersonalCover Broking operations with the continuing strong connection and oversight of EBM’s Regional Broking operations.
“The new executive structure will help us continue strong and sustainable growth into the future and ensure we build on the incredible legacy of our founders, executives, and staff.” Dedman said.