New managers to bolster CBN’s partnership push
Steadfast-owned Community Broker Network has made a pair of GM appointments amid an “expanded focus” on its partnership capability.
Head of network development Elise Pedersen has become GM for subsidiaries and associates, and Ewan Thompson, most recently Envest head of carrier management, joins as GM for partners.
CBN says the appointments “further strengthen” its partner model, which was boosted by last year's acquisition of Coverforce Partners. CBN says it already had a partnership model in place but “the addition of Coverforce further strengthens the partnership model capability and opportunity for our brokers”.
“In response to strong network demand, CBN … has reinforced its commitment to broker growth and long-term value creation through an expanded focus on its partnership capability,” the authorised representative network said.
“At the centre of this approach is CBN’s partner model.”
Ms Pedersen will “lead the performance, growth and alignment of … subsidiary and associate businesses, working closely with our partner cohort and across the organisation to strengthen capability, unlock value and ensure these businesses are well positioned for long-term success.
“Elise brings deep experience across strategy execution, portfolio performance and partner growth, underpinned by a career spanning senior roles at Allianz Australia and Macquarie Group.”
CBN says Mr Thompson will lead engagement and growth, with a “clear mandate to enhance” the AR group’s partner service offering.
Chief commercial officer John Mutton says the partner model reflects a “deliberate shift towards deeper, more aligned” partnerships.
“Our focus is on backing brokers to achieve their business ambitions, not just supporting them day to day,” he said. “Through our partner model, we are working alongside our partners to support growth, increase resilience and create long-term value.
“This is about more than capital. It’s about bringing the right capability, connections and strategic support to help brokers scale, adapt and succeed in an evolving market.”
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