It is a sombre time for our underwriting community.
We are incredibly sad to share that our former Chair of the Board, and Managing Director of Lion Underwriting, Kurt Nilsen, has passed away after a short battle with cancer. He was far too young to be taken from this world, aged just 52.
Kurt was a widely respected leader in underwriting circles and gave so much to the Australian insurance community. He dedicated 10 years on our Board (2013-2023), including three years as Chair between 2019 and 2022.
Throughout his decade of leadership, Kurt played a pivotal role in shaping UAC into what it is today. He was a tireless advocate for underwriting agencies, always focused on strengthening the industry, fostering collaboration, and ensuring UAC remained a valuable voice for its members.
Kurt was at the forefront of the UAC’s success during many pivotal moments in our journey. As an organisation that prides itself on bringing the industry together with face-to-face interactions, COVID lockdowns presented major challenges. This was during Kurt’s time as Chair. Kurt was determined for UAC to maintain its relevance and under his leadership it launched online training sessions that were so well received they attracted 500+ people per seminar.
More recently, when the UAC’s five-year plan was near an end, Kurt drove the creation of the next iteration; a three-year strategic plan which kicked off in 2023 to take UAC to new heights. When Jenny Bax commenced as CEO, Kurt provided a decisive voice and clear roadmap which continues to guide our organisation. Kurt’s incredible impact will live on.
Beyond his professional achievements, Kurt was known for his integrity, generosity, and willingness to support and mentor those around him. Many of us were privileged to have worked alongside him, learned from him, and been inspired by his unwavering commitment to our industry.
As MD of Lion, he was passionate about supporting brokers who supported businesses of all sizes to minimise their risk, believing it was the cornerstone of a well-functioning society. His entrepreneurial spirit was to be admired.
The Lion Underwriting team is creating a memory book for Kurt’s children who are 13 and 11 years old. If you knew Kurt and would like to contribute some thoughts about the great man their dad was, please send your messages to admin@lionunderwriting.com.au The book will be professionally printed and given to his children at the appropriate time.
Details about a celebration for Kurt’s life, expected to take place on the Gold Coast where Kurt resided, will be shared with the industry by Lion Underwriting in due course.
Please raise a glass for Kurt tonight. In the coming days and weeks, all of our thoughts will remain with Kurt’s family, especially his young children, and the entire team at Lion.
UAC Board & Jenny Bax (CEO)