Young broker says study has helped further his career
By Lucy Jones
Simon Hepworth, 21, from Lillingston & Marshall Insurance Brokers in Ballarat was awarded the 2010 CGU Norm Dyer Award of Excellence at the recent Insight conference in Tasmania.
The award recognises young insurance professionals who have made a contribution to their firm and the community.
Simon completed the Financial Services Certificate III at NIBA College last year and has recently enrolled in the Diploma of Financial Services.
Did you always want to be a broker?
Not at all, originally I wanted to be a tradie of some sort. I took a year off after high school and worked at Coles while I thought about what I wanted to do. I just kind of fell into broking and I’ve loved every minute.
Would you recommend studying at NIBA College?
Absolutely. I really enjoyed the NIBA course, everyone was always so helpful and it was easy to understand. I started my traineeship with Lillingston & Marshall and studied while I was working, so it’s a great way to learn about the industry. The course covers all aspects from the ground up – you learn the basics about how the office works and as you gain more experience it becomes more difficult and goes into more detail. The assignments are all based around the practical work you are doing in the firm.
How did you win this award?
Young brokers are nominated by their employees and get put forward to a three person judging panel. They question you on how you deal with customers, service standards, achievements, commitment and dedication. Nominees have to be studying or have recently finished and show a dedication to learning.
Why did you decide to continue your studies?
I spoke to some people from NIBA at the Insight Conference and they recommended the Diploma and are going to send me the details. The course means I can keep working while I’m studying and build my practical skills. I want to keep learning as much as I can throughout my career, all the way to the top.
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