Respected broking industry leader and Gallagher Australia head of sales operations Emma Keegan has died following a battle with cancer.

“It is with deep sadness that Gallagher announces the recent peaceful passing of Emma Keegan,” the company said today.

Ms Keegan joined Gallagher as Melbourne branch director in April 2016, held many senior positions throughout her career and was active in key roles with the National Insurance Brokers Association.

“Her strong and endearing personality quickly forged bonds with her team members and colleagues across the organisation, as well as within the industry at large,” Gallagher Australia said.

“Emma’s passing is a significant loss for all at Gallagher and for those who knew her throughout the insurance market in Australia and the UK.”

NIBA says Ms Keegan was a distinguished and highly respected leader who made an enduring contribution to the industry.

She was co-vice chair of NIBA’s Victorian committee and a member of the convention committee, and was a judge for the community excellence member of the year award and the Victorian young professional award. 

“Emma was a dear friend and colleague, and someone who brought genuine passion, energy and enthusiasm to everything she did,” the association’s Victoria and Tasmania divisional committee chair Kevin Baker said today. 

“She cared deeply about the Victorian broking community and all the people lucky enough to meet her along the way.

“It was an honour to lead NIBAʼs Victorian committee alongside her for a number of years. Her legacy is one of generosity, bravery, integrity and lasting impact.” 

NIBA CEO Richard Klipin says Ms Keegan led by example as an advocate of the profession.

“Her loss will be felt by all of us in the broking community,” he said. “On behalf of NIBA, I extend our sincere condolences to Emmaʼs family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time.”

Ms Keegan joined Gallagher from Aon in 2016 and previously worked at Zurich, her LinkedIn page shows.

“Known for describing herself as ‘small but fiery’, Emma was always willing to get involved, sharing her knowledge and experiences with others, which enabled them to develop their careers within insurance,” Gallagher said. “Emma was a true beacon of bravery and optimism and will be deeply missed. We extend our heartfelt sympathy to her family and friends during this time.”

Ms Keegan posted on LinkedIn two months ago that she had been living with incurable cancer for four years and was taking leave.