Long-standing insurance adviser Kevin Allen is being remembered for going beyond the call of duty in his service to the industry.
The father of four died in mid-November.
Allen began his career in insurance with State Insurance in 1968 and moved through three broking houses before he started his own business in 1985.
He was principal and director of Insurance Consultants Ltd until he sold the business in 2008, by which time it was an employer of 16.
He was a board member of IBANZ for more than a decade and headed the education committee for seven years. Allen was named Insurance Broker of the Year in 2004.
Through his career, he was a strong advocate of regulation and the need for insurance broking to be seen as a profession.
In 2000, he won the Richard Burrows trophy for contributions to the NZ insurance industry, his company Insurance Consultants was awarded Company of the Year.
More recently, he helped the Professional IQ College write course material, deliver workshops and webinars around New Zealand.
Allen was this year included in the Queen’s Birthday Honours, given the NZ Order of Merit for his services to people with brain injuries. He was also involved with fundraising for children with cancer.
IBANZ chief executive Gary Young said Allen’s personal contribution to the insurance sector had been significant. “Always willing to help others in their journey to become qualified professionals, Kevin has been a valuable role model for others to follow.”
Allen was engaged in substantial Christchurch earthquake, material damage and business interruption claims. He was known for his problem-solving skills, his technical know-how and excellent claim outcomes.
He is survived by his wife Michelle and children.
