A panel has assessed more than 70 applications from candidates hoping to join the Underwriting Agencies Council Leadership Academy.

Eight judges have reviewed applications for the inaugural intake and a shortlist has been provided to UAC chair Mike Edmonds and CEO Jenny Bax.

Twenty-five candidates will be accepted on the program, which will run from March to September next year.

Judge and Rural Affinity MD James Hooper says the calibre of candidates reflects the strong program offering.

“I think they have really hit the nail on the head in the blend of technical and commercial skills and leadership skills that are being developed,” he told insuranceNEWS.com.au.

“The quality of the course is so high that we have some quite experienced people applying.”  

Issues considered by judges included an applicant’s aspirations and approach to leadership, and the alignment of their goals with the academy’s objectives.

“What I really like about the judging criteria is its strong focus on leadership potential, not defined by title or tenure but by curiosity, courage and the ability to bring others along the journey,” Ms Bax said.

“That aligns perfectly with what the UAC Leadership Academy is all about – developing confident, capable leaders who will shape the future of our sector.”

The program was developed by UAC in partnership with the Australian and New Zealand Institute of Insurance and Finance, and it is sponsored by HDI Global.

The other judges were PassportCard CEO Peter Klemt, Steadfast EGM Australasian networks, broker and insurer services Nick Cook, Insurance Investment Solutions MD Peg Reuben, ANZIIF GM industry engagement Mark Silveira, HDI Global Specialty head of delegated authority Peter Gezimati, Market Lane Group executive Natasha Gale, and Protecsure CEO Gabriele McDonald.