Young Broker Day
Young Broker Day 2026 is sponsored by
What is Young Broker Day?
The day is designed to provide another avenue of guidance and support to insurance professionals in the early stages of their career. With career stories from insurance legends to celebrity speakers and sessions on personal development, previous Young Broker Days have been invaluable. There is the opportunity to tour around the expansive Exhibition Hall and network with professionals across the industry. The agenda is below and you can also add it to your CPD hours.
Young Broker Day is open to people who work for FCA regulated brokers and insurers aged under 35.
If you work for an exhibitor and are interested in attending Young Broker Day please complete this form now. Your exhibiting company’s lead contact will also need to register you for The BIBA Conference as stand staff in order for you to gain entry. Exhibitor registration will open in early April.
Our 2026 hosts
We are delighted to have 2 wonderful young insurance professionals hosting YBD this year. They have a wealth of knowledge and experience in the industry.
Samantha Lowry
Ben Macrow
14 MAY
Thursday
09:00
Registration
09:15
Welcome to Young Broker Day 2026
09:25
Network with Impact
In this session, delegates will learn how to make impactful first impressions, grow their network with purpose, and develop trusted relationships that support long term career success. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to elevate your professional profile, this session equips you with the tools to connect authentically, collaborate effectively, and grow your career with confidence.
Learning Objectives
By the end of the session, delegates will be able to:
- Demonstrate through real-world scenarios, how to communicate with clarity and confidence
- Identify ways to navigate networking situations with ease and build rapport with clients, colleagues and industry partners

Ben Macrow
Ben Macrow
Ben joined the insurance industry in 2019 and has since progressed into his current role as an Account Executive, where he looks after a diverse portfolio of commercial clients. Early in his career, Ben became actively involved with BIBA, joining the South Wales council and quickly stepping into the role of Young Broker Ambassador. His continued commitment led to him becoming the youngest ever Chair of BIBA South Wales, while also serving as Chair of the Young Broker Ambassadors nationally. Alongside his BIBA responsibilities, Ben contributes to the wider industry through his involvement with the BIBA Insurance Technology and Innovation Committee, helping to shape conversations around digital transformation and the future capabilities of brokers. In 2023, Ben was recognised as one of the Top 25 Insurance Brokers by Insurance Business, reflecting his professional impact and growing influence within the sector. Alongside his role with BIBA, Ben is also part of The Insurance Institute of Cardiff, where he has held roles as NOVUS President and Regional Forum Officer within the Cardiff CII. Ben has also been honoured with the Novus Emerging Professionals Award from the Cardiff Institute of Insurance. Further demonstrating his passion for championing the broker voice, Ben is a member of the Voice of the Broker Champions Council with Gracechurch, where he contributes to improving insurer–broker relationships and raising service standards across the market.
Session details:

Samantha Lowry
Samantha Lowry
Commercial Team Lead at Gallagher
Session details:

James Allotey
James Allotey
I am a dedicated and dynamic New Business-focused Broker with over 15 years of experience in corporate, commercial, and private client sales, broking, and insurer relationships. I thrive in client-facing roles, excelling at winning and retaining clients, and have managed insurance programs with global exposures. I have a broad expertise in commercial products and enjoy designing global programmes that fit around businesses. My career journey is a testament to my adaptability, enthusiasm, and commitment to professional growth. What I Love About My Current Role: I love the opportunity to meet and collaborate with independent brokers, understand their needs and network expectations, design and present effective proposals, and consistently meet and exceed new business sales targets. Current Job Title/Position and Responsibilities: Associate Director – Head of Sales at Willis Networks, I Help Insurance Brokers Maximise Growth Whilst Remaining Fiercely Independent.
Session details:
09:50
Exhibition Tour
Explore the bustling Exhibition Hall at The BIBA Conference with our hosts and Young Broker Ambassadors. Get ready to immerse yourself in the dynamic atmosphere filled with innovation, networking opportunities, and industry insights. Discover the latest trends, forge valuable connections, and experience the hubbub of activity.
Session details:
11:30
Celebrity speaker
More details coming soon
Session details:
12:00
Parametrics
Parametric insurance is reshaping how the industry responds to risk by offering faster claims payments, transparent triggers, and innovative cover solutions. In this session delegates will gain a clear, practical understanding of what parametric insurance is and how it works. From extreme weather, business interruption, travel disruption, and emerging specialty risks attendees will gain a basic understanding of how parametric insurance can be a key tool in business resilience.
Learning Objectives
By the end of the session, delegates will be able to:
- Explain what is parametric insurance with real-world examples
- Analyse how innovative technology in parametrics can help with emerging risks including climate and catastrophe claims situations
- Outline how parametrics works with risk management and mitigation measures

Ola Jacob
Ola Jacob
London Market Business Development Director, Global Parametrics Risk Solutions, CelsiusPro Group
Session details:
12:25
Navigating Hard and Soft Markets
This session breaks down the insurance market cycle and will explore what drives hard and soft markets, how these shifts impact pricing, capacity, underwriting decisions and the broker–insurer relationships. Delegates will walk away with the confidence to interpret current market conditions, anticipate where the cycle may be heading, and understand what shifting markets mean for their roles, their clients and the conversations they need to be having.
Learning Objectives
By the end of the session, delegates will be able to:
- identify the nuances of hard and soft markets and how to navigate them
- explore effective strategies for market changes and challenges and how to continue to achieve best outcomes for customers

George Faulkner
George Faulkner
George is the Founder and Managing Director of Merlin Insurance Brokers, a specialist property and construction insurance brokerage working with clients across the built environment, from concept to asset. George was noted as ‘Highly commended’ in BIBA’s young broker of the year award 2025 and led Merlin to win ‘Start-Up broker of the year’ in the Insurance Age awards 2025. Merlin has grown to a team of 10 people in 18 months with ambitious growth plans.
Session details:

Lauren Nixon
Lauren Nixon
Broker Proposition Manager, AXA Commercial
Session details:
13:00
Evolving Cyber Threats
In an increasingly digital world, cyber threats are evolving faster than ever. A leading ethical hacker teams up with Joe Tracey, UK & EU Cyber Development Leader at CFC, to shine a light on the dark web and how you can better protect yourself in the new cyber landscape.
You’ll explore how hackers infiltrate systems, what they look for, and the surprising ways cybercriminals leverage the dark web. The ethical hacker will reveal the techniques behind ethical penetration testing, showcasing how vulnerabilities are discovered before malicious actors can exploit them.
Alongside this, Joe will break down the current threat landscape and emerging patterns in cyber claims. You’ll gain practical insights into underwriting considerations, policy structures, and how to effectively advise clients navigating complex cyber exposures.
Learning Objectives
By the end of the session, delegates will be able to:
- Identify key cyber threats and why a good cyber policy protects business from this evolving risk
- Describe how easily criminals package up and sell data breach access on the dark web
- Analyse what happens at the point of a data breach and how cyber policies typically respond

Joe Tracey
Joe Tracey
Joe Tracey is a growth and development specialist with over a decade of experience working with market-leading organisations. As the Lead for Cyber Development across the UK & EU at CFC, he spearheads key initiatives to expand market share and position CFC at the forefront of cyber insurance. Leveraging his strong background in commercial insurance, Joe works closely with organisations at every level, from C suite executives to frontline teams, helping to shape and optimise cyber sales and placement strategies. Throughout his career, Joe has designed and created innovative risk programmes for both SME and corporate enterprises, demonstrating a deep understanding of market expansion and sales strategy. Passionate about thought leadership, training and strategic growth, Joe is committed to advancing the cyber insurance landscape across the UK & EU.
Session details:

Ethical Hacker
Ethical Hacker
You will meet them on the day...
Session details:
13:30
Lunch
Enjoy complimentary lunch and network with fellow attendees
14:30
Closing Keynote
KEYNOTE STAGE, AUDITORIUM
More details coming soon
Session details:
15:30
Close
Pre-YBD Networking
On Wednesday, April 15th, we’re excited to host two exclusive networking events in both London and Manchester, starting at 5pm. This special occasion offers young brokers and insurers, aged under 35, a unique opportunity to connect and engage with industry peers. Don’t miss out on this prime chance to expand your professional network and foster valuable relationships. Representatives from AXA UK and iCAN will also be there.
Coming soon
Last year was the biggest Young Broker Day yet! We had brilliant feedback and can’t wait to welcome you all again this year. Young Broker Day is on the second day of The BIBA Conference, so will be held on Thursday 16 May 2024. The agenda will be released soon so make sure to keep an eye on our socials and come back here for full details.
The BIBA Conference 2026 is sponsored by:

Aviva
Aviva are delighted to return as Principal and Keynote sponsor for the 2026 BIBA Conference. Our partnership with BIBA, as with brokers, is central to driving success for customers and the industry. In a fast-changing market, we’re here to help brokers navigate the complexity, seize opportunities, and deliver outstanding outcomes for our shared customers. Together, we’ll keep building a stronger, more resilient broker community and take our partnerships from strength to strength. We know the BIBA team have another fantastic event planned, and we can’t wait to connect with brokers in Manchester next May.

Intact Insurance
Intact Insurance is the new name for RSA in the UK, Ireland, and across Europe. It’s a new name and a new way to do business. For years, we’ve protected businesses and people, adapting to change and navigating uncertainty. Now, as Intact Insurance, we’re focused on making insurance simpler, faster, and more responsive – so you can move forward with confidence. Backed by global expertise and a commitment to service that feels different, Intact Insurance delivers expert solutions, practical insights, and 24/7 claims support when it matters most. For you, this means fewer roadblocks, quicker decisions, and a partner who understands your world. Intact Insurance – built on experience, driven by values, and here to help you thrive.

Allied World
Allied World is a global provider of insurance and reinsurance solutions. We have supported clients, cedents and trading partners with thoughtful service and meaningful coverages since 2001. Allied World underwriters a diverse portfolio of risks, from SMEs to FTSE 100 companies, and is committed to delivering commercial underwriting expertise, excellent service and responsiveness. We are a subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited, and we benefit from a worldwide network of affiliated entities that allow us to think and respond in non-traditional ways. Our capital base is strong, our solutions anticipate rather than react to changing trends, and our teams are focused on establishing long-term relationships that are mutually beneficial.

ARAG
When ARAG UK was founded in 2006, the vision was the same simple yet revolutionary principle expressed by Heinrich Faßbender in 1935:
“To enable everybody, not just those who can afford it, to assert their legal rights. We remain committed to equal opportunities for all.”
In 2024, DAS UK was integrated into the ARAG family.
Broker & Insurer Products
We provide an innovative and comprehensive range of Legal Expenses Insurance (LEI) products and assistance products to brokers, underwriting agents and insurers.
Our LEI products offer legal protection to business, families, motorists, and landlords. We also sell a range of assistance products including Home Emergency, Landlord Emergency and Motor Breakdown.

AXA
AXA Insurance offers personal and commercial insurance, while AXA XL focuses on P&C and specialty
risks. AXA Health is AXA’s UK health and wellbeing specialist and AXA Partners is a B2B specialist,
providing solutions in assistance services.
Together, we cover individuals and businesses operating in diverse sectors, and distribute our
products through brokers, aggregators, corporate and retail partners and direct to the customer. We
work hard to become a genuine partner to our customers, summed up in our tagline ‘Know You
Can’.
We hope you’ll take the Time:To visit our stand where you can meet the One AXA Team.

Bravo Networks & Geo Underwriting
Bravo Networks is one of the UK’s leading insurance brokerage services providers, bringing together regional, independent brokers as a community. Our core purpose is to help grow, protect and support our members, using our collective strength to help them build long-lasting and meaningful relationships with our panel of Insurer partners. We embrace each members’ uniqueness and have designed a flexible proposition structured around what our members have told us they need for every stage of their business lifecycle.
Geo Underwriting is a specialist MGA offering tailored insurance solutions that cater to clients requiring cover that’s a bit more special. From construction and commercial to agriculture, leisure, marine and protection, Geo’s diverse range of products, housed together with market-leading brands, span multiple business sectors. Offering quality, bespoke products backed by experienced teams providing expert advice, excellent service and A-rated capacity, Geo gives brokers freedom of choice and greater reach within the UK insurance market.

Carpenters Group
Carpenters Group is a leading provider of insurance and legal services, with over 30 years’ experience delivering fully outsourced claims solutions.
Working in partnership with insurers, brokers and managing general agents, we combine deep insurance knowledge with legal expertise to support clients throughout the claims journey.
Our team of around 1,500 colleagues operates from seven locations across the UK, including Liverpool, Leeds, Manchester, Haywards Heath and Glasgow.
We pride ourselves on long-standing relationships built on trust, quality and innovation. As a technology-driven business, we continually invest in digital solutions to enhance customer experience and streamline processes.
Our services span motor and home claims, legal expenses, serious injury, credit hire and subrogated recovery, supported by a 24/7 FNOL centre.
At Carpenters Group, we are committed to doing the right thing for our clients, colleagues and communities, delivering exceptional outcomes every time.

CFC

Chubb
Chubb is a world leader in insurance. With operations in 54 countries and territories, Chubb provides commercial and personal property and casualty insurance, personal accident and supplemental health insurance, reinsurance and life insurance to a diverse group of clients. As an underwriting company, we assess, assume and manage risk with insight and discipline. We service and pay our claims fairly and promptly. The company is also defined by its extensive product and service offerings, broad distribution capabilities, exceptional financial strength and local operations globally. Parent company Chubb Limited is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: CB) and is a component of the S&P 500 index. Chubb maintains executive offices in Zurich, New York, London, Paris and other locations and employs approximately 40,000 people worldwide.

Close Brothers
As pioneers with more than 45 years’ experience in insurance premium finance, we continue to deliver award winning support through our strategic drivers of service, expertise and relationships.
Working in partnership with brokers, we offer practical support, unique data and insights, to reinforce business decisions and goals. Our wide range of products help all types of customers pay for their insurance, by spreading the cost over regular fixed monthly payments.
Together, we’ll help you unlock opportunities for your business and customers.

Cowbell Cyber
Coming soon

DUAL
DUAL's strength lies in it's local teams, whose knowledge of their market helps them better understand and meet clients’ needs. As one of the world’s largest MGAs, backed by highly rated insurance and reinsurance capacity providers, providing stability of coverage and unmatched underwriting expertise. With £1bn GWP across 27+ product lines, we’re trusted industry experts with specialist local underwriting experience in a broad range of business lines.
Our entrepreneurial spirit continues to drive profitable growth, reflected in our growing regional presence where there’s clear demand for service-led, solution-orientated capacity. We believe in local trading and have added to our regional footprint with offices in Manchester and Bristol.

Gallagher
Gallagher is one of the UK’s largest insurance brokers — with a UK-wide network of more than 50 branches and well-established specialty London market operations, delivering risk management solutions for corporate, commercial and personal customers.
We’re the broker of choice for more than 720,000 UK and international businesses and work with companies of all sizes — from sole traders, start-ups and SMEs to large businesses and multinationals — across a wide range of industry sectors to minimise their total cost of risk.
Our strong presence in the London market means we can leverage relationships with multiple specialist insurance partners to obtain the most effective cover for clients with large, complex or international needs. Similarly, our regional UK branches enable us to remain embedded in the communities we serve as a trusted advisor, providing local support and insurance solutions to businesses and private clients.
We are also the proud title partner of Premiership Rugby.

LexisNexis
RELX (LSE: REL/NYSE: RELX), a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. For more
information, please visit www.risk.lexisnexis.com and www.relx.com.

Markel
Markel is a leading specialist insurer, serving regional brokers and UK SMEs. We are proud to empower, support and protect over one million UK customers with specialist insurance, tax and legal solutions. We’re specialists and have provided sector-specific solutions for over 30 years. In that time, we've established a strong reputation for technical excellence, product innovation and service excellence to the broking community. Whether it’s access to 24/7 legal advice, tax support or a debt recovery service, we understand the day-to-day challenges facing our customers. We put people first because we believe in the power of relationships and doing what’s right.

Munich Re Specialty
Munich Re Specialty provides specialty insurance solutions across key markets through a mix of technical underwriting, data insights and sector experience. As part of the Munich Re Group, you access strong financial backing and a global network of specialist teams across various regions.
You benefit from clear appetite guidance, responsive underwriters and support on complex risks. Our teams work closely with brokers on a wide range of sectors and lines, including property, casualty, marine, cargo, cyber and more. We focus on practical service, transparent terms and consistent communication.
We work with brokers who want a reliable partner with strong capacity and technical depth. Our aim is to help you place risks, build new products and give your clients support in an evolving risk environment.

Pearson Ham Group
Pearson Ham is a multi-sector pricing consultancy and market leader in provision of market price tracking and insights services to UK insurers and brokers. Operating in Motor, Home, Van, Pet, Travel, and Landlord, our insights are used by 80% of leading insurers active in the price comparison website market.
It uses real consumer profiles to obtain over 670,000 prices every day, available to clients the next day at individual provider and product level. As well as price movements, Pearson Ham provides ‘real time’ information on new product launches, product changes, premium finance, and promotional messaging.
While underwriting performance relies on claims data, it’s crucial that retail trading is supported by an in-depth understanding of competitor strategies. Pearson Ham provides this, enabling its clients to make more informed decisions.

Ryan Specialty
Ryan Specialty Underwriting Managers (RSUM): Powering Specialty Solutions
RSUM stands at the forefront of delegated authority underwriting, delivering innovative solutions for niche markets. Our international footprint spans the UK, Europe, the Middle East and Asia, reflecting rapid growth and commitment to meeting client and trading partner needs. Our diverse portfolio of MGAs led by experienced specialists, combines deep market knowledge with agility and precision.
Meet Two RSUM MGAs at BIBA:
- AQUEOUS UNDERWRITING
Award-winning and broker-focused, Aqueous provides SME insurance solutions with speed and simplicity. From Professional Indemnity to tailored SME packages for food, hospitality, and leisure sectors, we offer rapid quote-and-bind, A-rated carriers, and real underwriters delivering reliability.
- SQUARE PEGS
When standard products don’t fit, Square Pegs steps in. We craft bespoke insurance solutions for UK small and micro businesses through a cutting-edge electronic platform that gives brokers instant access to flexible, tailored solutions backed by A-rated insurers.

Verisk
We deliver data enrichment and actionable insights that empower Insurers, Brokers, and MGAs to make confident, informed decisions. Driving growth, reducing risk, and improving customer outcomes across home, commercial, and motor insurance.