Steadfast, a leading insurance broking and distribution group in Australia, has announced the promotion of Noelene Palmer to the role of Chief Operating Officer (COO). This appointment follows the decision of current COO, Nigel Fitzgerald, to step down on July 1st, 2025, in pursuit of a personal business venture.
Fitzgerald will continue to serve in a senior advisory capacity until September 30th, 2025, ensuring a seamless transition. Additionally, he will maintain a close relationship with Steadfast Group by holding board positions for several of its subsidiaries.
Palmer brings nearly 25 years of invaluable industry experience, having held senior roles at IAG, TAL, Swiss Re, and KPMG. Her most recent position was as COO for the Financial Crime and Fraud Prevention team at Westpac.
Robert Kelly AM, Founder, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Steadfast Group, commented, “Nigel has made significant contributions to our business, playing a key role in our success over the past two years. With his entrepreneurial spirit, he has effectively strengthened the foundation of our growth strategy and enhanced our operational processes. I fully support Nigel as he embarks on his personal business venture and am pleased that he will remain with the Steadfast family.”
Kelly continued, “Noelene’s extensive experience in the insurance industry makes her a highly valued member of the Executive Leadership Team. Since joining Steadfast in July 2024 as Executive General Manager of Operations, she has been instrumental in resolving strata matters efficiently and streamlining our processes to ensure the ongoing effectiveness of our organization.”
In a concurrent announcement, Tim Mathieson has been promoted to CEO of Australasia Broking, Steadfast Group, effective May 1st, 2025. Mathieson brings over 25 years of experience in the insurance industry and has been part of Steadfast for nearly a decade, including the last five years as CEO of QIB Group, a Steadfast subsidiary.
Kelly expressed his satisfaction, stating, “I am very pleased to have Tim rejoin the Steadfast Group Executive team. He is an outstanding executive with substantial expertise in general insurance broking and has demonstrated a strong track record in his current role. I am confident that he will transition smoothly into his new position.”
These appointments allow the Executive Leadership Team to concentrate on the disciplined strategic execution of our proven business model, explore expansion opportunities, and develop market-leading products and services to benefit our broker network and their clients.”
Kelly further added, “I reaffirm my commitment not to retire before December 31, 2026. It is my intention to continue until a successor has been appointed. Steadfast has several internal candidates for consideration, and the Board will, in due course, commence the process to evaluate both internal and external candidates.”
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