The Protection Guru Awards 2024 have unveiled the year’s top achievers in the protection sector.
- Now in its fourth year, the awards recognise individuals and firms excelling in challenging times.
- New categories, including Tech Awards, highlight innovation in protection technology and client support.
- Votes from Protection Guru users identified standout performers in the Insurer Awards category.
- The event emphasised the importance of maintaining high standards despite pandemic challenges.
The Protection Guru Awards 2024 recognised major achievements in the protection industry, continuing their tradition of celebrating excellence even amidst the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Established to highlight significant contributions to the sector, the awards are structured into four main categories this year: Individual Adviser Awards, Adviser Firm Awards, Insurer Awards, and Prestige Awards. A new addition, the Tech Awards, was introduced this year to commend technological advancements facilitating enhanced protection dialogues.
The determination of winners involved broad participation from users on the Protection Guru platform, especially in the Insurer Awards category. Noteworthy efforts in client support during the claims process and the elevation of protection solution awareness were acknowledged in the Individual and Adviser Firm Awards. These accolades underscore the sector’s resilience and commitment to maintaining exemplary service standards during trying times.
Ian McKenna, founder and CEO of Protection Guru, highlighted the significance of the awards, remarking, “Now in its fourth year, the Protection Guru Awards are an opportunity to celebrate those who have gone above and beyond in the protection industry whether that’s delivering the best protection outcomes for people, demonstrating the best innovation, providing the most impactful changes for advice firms, and more.” McKenna emphasised the inspiring nature of the nominations and congratulated all who participated.
Among the celebrated individuals was Anna Gustyn from Umbrella Protect, awarded for Best Claim Case Study by an Adviser. The event also honoured Kelly Walton from Protex Financial for Best Use of Video Social Media by an Adviser, and Gary Green from Cotswold Mortgage Solutions for Best Use of Static Social Media by an Adviser. Orianne Williamson from LifeSearch received recognition as Outstanding New Protection Adviser.
The awards extended to firm-level excellence with The Openwork Partnership winning for Best Marketing of Protection from an Advice Firm, and Sesame recognised as the Best Network. In the Insurer Awards, Guardian stood out with Jordan Clark being honoured for Best Use of Social Media from a BDM. In addition, Guardian received accolades for Best Support Service and was marked as the Best Insurer for hard-to-cover clients.
Gifted individuals and teams within the protection industry continue to set ever-higher benchmarks for excellence and innovation. The Prestige Awards, another significant part of the event, saw Emma Astley from CoverMyBubble receive The Above and Beyond Award, while HSBC Life was praised for Outstanding Performance in Claims Handling. These awards reflect the sector’s dedication to adapting and thriving amidst ongoing global challenges.
The accolades at the Protection Guru Awards 2024 highlight the unwavering commitment of individuals and firms to excellence in the protection sector.
