BN’s Demi Peters named ANZIIF Young Insurance Professional of the Year

Advancing an industry she loves and helping people: just two aspects of Demi Peters’ professional endeavours that drive her commitment to her role — and beyond.

Her insurance career may still be in its early days but she’s already making her mark on the industry — particularly in her home state, Tasmania.

On Thursday 22 August, she was recognised as the Young Insurance Professional of the Year at ANZIIF’s 2024 Australian Insurance Industry Awards in Sydney — a feat she considers her “greatest professional achievement to date”.

Her employer, Barry Nilsson, was also nominated for Professional Services Firm of the Year.

“It's not only recognition for the dedication and genuine passion that I have for what I do and the insurance industry as a whole, but I really do hope the award demonstrates to other young insurance professionals in Tasmania that career progression and achievement are attainable regardless of where you're based in Australia,” says Peters. “I hope it motivates others to see the range of opportunities that exist in the industry.” 

Perusing her list of professional achievements, it’s easy to see why she was nominated. As president of the Tasmanian branch of Young Insurance Professionals (YIPs) — a role she has held since 2019 — Peters has been instrumental in re-establishing the once-dormant local committee and solidifying the network's presence in the state.

Outside her senior associate role within Barry Nilsson’s Insurance and Health team, she enjoys mentoring the next generation of legal professionals; contributing her time to pro bono work; and writing articles for industry publications.

Engaging in such a diverse range of professional activities is Peters’ way of repaying the support and mentorship she’s received throughout her own career. “It's both my duty and privilege to pay it forward, to support and mentor those in the industry and contribute in any way that I can,” she says.

A rapid progression

Peters began her professional career in 2013 as an office junior at Hunt & Hunt Lawyers. Aged 18, she had just started a law degree and was unsure which area of law she wanted to practise.

In 2016, she joined Barry Nilsson as a law clerk, where she quickly developed an interest in insurance law. “I was admitted as a solicitor in August 2018 and commenced as a solicitor at Barry Nilsson shortly after, initially practising in public liability, professional indemnity, workers’ compensation and CTP,” explains Peters.

It was at this time that her passion for insurance law was truly cemented. “I found the diversity across the practice areas, as well as the insureds and range of clients, interesting and the work I was doing was challenging but rewarding,” she says.

Peters was promoted to associate in January 2022, and then senior associate 12 months later.

“Having been in practice for less than five years at the time, this promotion was a significant milestone in my career, and a testament to my hard work and technical ability,” she says.

Embracing change

Like many in her generation, Peters is excited by advancements in new technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), and the impact they stand to have on the insurance sector.

“What was once a foreign concept, AI now has the power to revolutionise the way the insurance industry operates and is integrating itself into the industry at a rapid pace,” she says, adding that she’s always eager to learn about and trial new AI technologies.

“My passion for insurance is rooted in its constant innovation, from advancements in AI to a heightened emphasis on social responsibility — the landscape is ever-changing.”

Peters is likewise inspired by the human connections she makes through her work, gaining great satisfaction from supporting people during their most challenging moments.

“Every day, I get to help people navigate what can often be a stressful time in their lives,” she says. “I take that role and responsibility extremely seriously. It’s a real privilege to get to do that, and the relationships that I build with my colleagues and clients are so fulfilling. 

“I experience both professional and personal growth in what I do, so I'm very lucky.”

Advice for industry newcomers

For other young professionals looking to get ahead in their careers, Peters offers three pieces of advice.

First, say yes to every opportunity presented to you, she suggests, adding: “I learned early on in my career that no matter how big or small the opportunity is, there's always something to learn from it”.

Second, actively look for ways to develop your skills, network or learn something new. “The industry has so much to offer to those that are eager to explore what's out there,” she says.

“Career progression and advancement is entirely determined by the work that you put in, the opportunities that you take and, of course, the invaluable lessons you learn along the way.”

Third, always be your authentic self.

“This is something I endeavour to adhere to in every facet of my life,” says Peters. “It’s the key to building trust and rapport not only with clients, but also your colleagues.”

Read about the other 2024 Australian Insurance Awards Winners