Oval account manager presented with the award by Lord Digby Jones this afternoon

Lois Williams has been named Young Broker of the Year 2014 and this year’s Biba conference.

Williams, a corporate account manager at Oval, which was bought by Arthur J Gallagher last month, was presented with the award by Lord Digby Jones this afternoon.

Stevie Ridgley of Firth & Scott and Natalie Albert of Caunce O’Hara & Co were also named national finalists in the award.

The judges said they named Williams the winner because of her personal commitment to professionalism, personal development, and the role she plays in the wider industry. They said her passion for customer service and success in mentoring apprentices particularly stood out.

Biba chief executive Steve White said: “It is a great pleasure to be able to recognise the stars of insurance broking. The winner and those shortlisted represent an important group of our sector who are instrumental in shaping our future.”

Jones, a former director general of the CBI and star of BBC 2 show The New Troubleshooter, said it was an honour to present the award.

“It’s important that all sectors of business recognise the next generation and business leaders of the future. I understand Lois has fought a tough competition to achieve this award and I wish her lots of success in the promising career she has ahead of her,” he said.