JLT Natural Resources & Construction – People
Following are brief profiles of our people – insurance brokers who are dedicated to act for you, in partnership with you, in your best interests.
Victoria

- Richard Van Velzen – Managing Director, Natural Resources & Construction
BB (Finance & IT), Dip Fin Ser, QPIB, MAICD
Richard’s career in the insurance industry spans 30 years working in the Melbourne, Brisbane and London markets. A recognised industry leader in his field, Richard has led large infrastructure, government, energy and mining projects and operational programme placements. His experience includes broking and consulting for large Australian and international entities, across a broad range of disciplines, including feasibility studies for and management of offshore captives and sophisticated risk financing programmes. Richard is a sought after speaker at national conferences and seminars.
Email: richard.vanvelzen@jlta.com.au
Phone: (03) 9613 1415
- Peter Varrese – Account Manager, Natural Resources and Construction
ANZIIF (Senior Associate), QPIB
Peter has worked in the insurance industry for over 18 years and he has spent his career with major national and international brokers in Melbourne.
During this period, he has been responsible for the management, placement and servicing insurance programmes of clients engaged in a diverse range of occupations, including Construction Contractors, Engineering Contractors/Consultants, Manufacturers, Retailers, Local Government, Oil & Gas and Mining.
Email: peter.varrese@jlta.com.au
Phone: (03) 9613 1425
South Australia

- Matthew Nation – Account Manager
Matthew has more than 15 years in the insurance industry and during that time he has been involved in the design, placement and administration or insurance programs for various major industrial and commercial organisations.
Since 2007 he has been responsible for managing the Natural Resources & Construction segment in South Australia and services a select portfolio of JLT’s construction and mining clients.
Email: matthew.nation@jlta.com.au
Phone: (08) 8418 0211
New South Wales

- Ian Cuthbert – National Manager, Power and Construction
ANZIIF (Snr Associate), Dip Fin Serv (Broking), QPIB
Ian has 23 years experience in insurance industry, 21 of which have been with JLT. He was recognised as NSW Qualified Practising Insurance Broker of the Year 2000.
Ian specialises in the design of major engineering and construction insurance programmes, and has worked in JLT’s offices in Sydney, London and South East Asia. He leads JLT’s Construction and Power team.
Ian has arranged many project specific construction programmes for both contractors and principals, both in respect of privately owned and State Government assets delivered through Public Private Partnerships. He has also provided advisory services to financiers in respect of major construction insurance placements.
Email: ian.cuthbert@jlta.com.au
Phone: (02) 9290 8020
Queensland

- Valerie Brooks – Divisional Manager
Valerie’s career in the insurance industry has included roles in UK, South Africa and Australia with major insurers and international insurance brokers. Her experience over more that 30 years includes the placement and ongoing management of insurance programmes for Utilities, Oil & Gas, Construction and major Corporate clients.
Valerie joined JLT's Perth office in 2002 and subsequently relocated to JLT Brisbane to take up the role of Divisional Manager in the Natural Resources and Construction segment.
Email: valerie.brooks@jlta.com.au
Phone: (07) 3246 7569
Western Australia

- Steve Thomas – Executive Director, WA Retail
ANZIIF (Senior Associate), CIP, DIA, QPIB, Dip Fin Ser
Steve has over 28 years of experience in managing complex accounts for leading multinationals and corporations in Australia. His areas of expertise include construction, mining and major corporate. In 1986, he joined JLT and has played a pivotal role in developing JLT corporate business, having led major projects in Indonesia and Australia before holding his current position as Executive Director of JLT Western Australia.
Steve is responsible for business development, finance and other matters related to JLT Western Australia’s operations.
Email: steve.thomas@jlta.com.au
Phone: +61 (08) 9426 0492