Sydney-based Bruce Chiene Insurance Brokers turns 70 this year and has a “fantastic team” in place to take it forward, long-serving MD Warren Schafer says.

The business was started in 1956 by Bruce Chiene, who was MD until he died in 1988.

It offers commercial risk expertise, including in marine, professional indemnity, rural and farm, and cyber lines.

The broker plans to mark its milestone at Easts Rugby Club, a long-time client, and it will be a double celebration as the company also recognises Mr Schafer’s half-century of service.

The event will probably be held in May with clients, insurers and key business partners.

“We’re going to have a small get-together … and at the same time, we’re going to celebrate me being there for 50 years,” Mr Schafer told insuranceNEWS.com.au.

He says the broker’s commitment to clients is behind its longevity.

“If we take on a client, regardless of their size, we service them not only for new business or renewals … but also for their claims.

“I believe a good broker should know the product they are recommending to their client, and take the time to know the client.

“I also believe you must give service to the client regardless of their size, and I always mention to my staff, ‘You’re only as good as your last claim.’ ”

Mr Schafer intends to reduce his working week to four days after June 30.

“The year after, I might cut back to a three-day week ... by that time, I’m going to be close enough to 75. The team at Bruce Chiene is fantastic. They’re young. They’re enthusiastic. They know the business. I wish I was 20 years younger.”

Mr Schafer, who started his insurance career in 1969 after leaving school, is confident artificial intelligence will not diminish the role of brokers as risk advisers.

“I believe AI is a handy tool and can add value. However, I don’t believe AI will be able to overtake the person-to-person contact.”