Profile
Over the course of her 20-year insurance career, Kate Middleton has established herself as a true industry trailblazer. She began by project managing the design of Budget Direct’s first home and contents claims system and went on to implement major white-label insurance brands, including Macquarie, Virgin Money and ING. Along the way, she has gained rare end-to-end insight into the industry, spanning underwriting, pricing, and product through to claims, repair, and consumer advocacy.
Middleton’s experience includes expanding operations across New Zealand, the UK and the Philippines and leading teams of up to 110 FTE. In 2016, she took on the role of CEO at Censeo Engineers, where she oversaw the creation of a groundbreaking geo-radar inspection methodology for escape of liquid claims and led the business to five separate innovation and business awards in Australia and the US.
Most recently, Middleton has joined the senior leadership team at ARC Projects. She is also actively shaping the future of the industry through her role as deputy chair and board director of AiBEC, spearheading engagement with peak insurance bodies such as the ICA, ANZIIF and AFCA.
A committed community advocate, Middleton supports fundraising and awareness for Women’s Legal Service and The Carers Foundation. However, her proudest achievement is her work as a mentor, guiding and championing women both within and beyond the insurance sector.
Level 1/832 Southport Nerang Rd, Nerang, Qld 4211
1300 728 225
commercial@arcprojects.com.au
linkedin.com/in/katemiddletonsalesandstrategy
arcprojects.com.au
Kate Middleton
Head of Commercial Insurance
ARC Projects
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Bio
Milestones
Profile
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Special Report
Home
Bio
Milestones
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Special Report
Home
Bio
Milestones
2004
2010
2016–2019
Present
Present
Commenced insurance career at AAMI in Sydney
2004
Led the implementation of greenfield strategic partnerships at Auto & General, expanding distribution and market reach
2010
CEO of Censeo, leading national operations across Australia
Recognised with multiple business awards
2016–2019
Holding executive roles with Tier 1 insurance builders since 2020
Deputy Chairperson and Board Director of AiBEC since 2025
Present
Chief Operating Officer at Domo Insurance since 2024
Present
Milestones
Milestones
Sept 2021
Feb 2022
Apr 2022
Jul 2022
Aug
2022
Suncorp Bank introduces Solar Home Bonus offer for customers who are choosing renewable energy for their homes
Sept 2021
Month-on-month market share growth commences
Feb 2022
Suncorp Bank wins the Canstar award for most outstanding value in investment loans
Apr 2022
Suncorp Bank wins Money Magazine’s Bank of the Year and Business Bank of the Year awards for the fifth year in a row
Jul 2022
Suncorp Bank’s turnaround times are the lowest they have ever been. The lender becomes Australia’s first certified carbon neutral bank for both its operation and transaction services
Aug 2022
Milestones
As a founding member of WOW! (Women. Opportunity. Winning.), an employee resource group created for all women of Ryan Specialty, Phillips Topping has long championed for women in the industry.
“It’s very important to set an example and to not only inspire but mentor other females,” she adds.
In addition to her sharp marketing eye, the key to Phillips Topping’s success lies in her high-energy approach and positive attitude.
“As the leader of a team, it’s important to motivate and encourage your team members. People work very hard and do their best and it’s important to recognize these efforts. For my career overall, my attitude has been one of curiosity. The more you can learn, the better you’ll understand the business, and then the deeper your knowledge will become, making you a better team member.”
Chief underwriting officer of executive risk at Chubb
President of financial insurance solutions at Kemper
Chief underwriting officer at Axis Capital
CEO of global Insurance at Endurance
CEO of global Insurance at Sompo International
A significant part of his focus today is staying ahead of regulatory change while maintaining a seamless client experience. He tracks updates from regulators and lenders closely and works with his teams to adjust systems as needed.
“My approach to my role and my career has always been rooted in passion, focus, and a relentless pursuit of excellence,” he says. “I’ve never been driven solely by profit or business metrics. I believe in hiring great talent, trusting them, and pushing boundaries because innovation doesn’t come from playing it safe.”
His experience isn’t limited to Canada. Ibrahim has worked in the US and UAE, which shaped his global perspective and comfort with adapting to different markets. He thrives on risk, viewing setbacks as stepping stones to progress.
“I’ve always believed that if you love what you do, you’ll never settle, and that attitude has guided every decision I’ve made,” he adds.
That outlook continues to guide his work and reflects his broader goal of helping move the industry forward. Through his brokerage, lending company, and legal services, Ibrahim is focused on creating long-term value for his clients, his teams, and others working in the field.