From Young Achiever to Industry Leader: A Historic Double Win within Cardiff Local Institute

The Chartered Insurance Institute of Cardiff is celebrating one of its own this year as Craig Winter has been awarded the CII Professional Award for 2025.

Craig started his career in insurance in 1999 and spent ten years in personal lines before shifting into commercial insurance, a move that marked the beginning of a new chapter and ultimately led Craig to Gallagher in 2014 where he now successfully leads the Wales based SME New Business team.

Under Craig’s leadership, the team has grown significantly to now have 48 thriving colleagues. Yet, Craig’s impact extends beyond numbers. He is renowned for his commitment to nurturing talent, mentoring team members into managerial roles, and fostering a culture of growth, opportunity, and inclusion. His passion led him to create the Gallagher Wales Development Centre; a pioneering initiative aimed at developing future leaders and creating a strong pipeline for succession planning within the business.

Craig’s career has been constantly marked by excellence and great achievements. In 2016, he won Cardiff CII’s Young Achiever Award and earned a place at Gallagher’s prestigious Presidents Club event in Chicago which recognised the top 1% of producers worldwide. Fast forward to 2023, Craig attended the Power of Gallagher event in Las Vegas, a great recognition for his continued contributions to the business.

This year, Craig’s enduring dedication his culminated in winning Cardiff CII’s Professional Excellence Award, a true testament to the positive impact he continues to have within Gallager and across the wider insurance industry.

Speaking of Craig’s achievement, Alisha Edwards the President of Cardiff CII said: “Craig’s story is a perfect example of long-term dedication and career growth. He has become the first person to win a Young Achiever accolade, continue developing his career, and then this year win the Professional Excellence Award. Both awards, in just over 10 years. His journey highlights his commitment to not only his own career, but also to inspiring others. Craig deserves the recognition for his success.”

Mike Jones, Regional Managing Director at Gallagher, added: “Being honoured with the Professional Excellence Award this year is not only a testament to Craig’s dedication and loyalty to colleagues, clients and prospects alike, but also to the insurance industry here in Wales. This is a significant milestone in his career progression.

“Having also won a Young Achiever Award in 2016, Craig has personified the incredible journey available to everyone within our dynamic and exciting industry.

“Craig’s journey over the last decade is a great example of how enthusiasm, dedication and commitment to excellence can lead to impressive success. Craig’s professional growth and career trajectory is not only a personal triumph, but also a reflection of the supportive atmosphere provided by employers like Gallagher and our peers within the Cardiff Institute.

“Since his early days as a promising Young Achiever, Craig has consistently demonstrated a clear passion for his work. His leadership and collaborative approach to business continuously contribute to the growth of our organisation, inspiring many of his colleagues to strive for excellence.

“We are proud to have Craig as part of the Gallagher family, and we look forward to seeing his achievements in the years to come.”

Craig’s journey is a powerful reminder that excellence is not just about results, but also about how your lead and inspire others along the way. Cardiff CII is proud to celebrate Craig Winter and his well-deserved recognition of a true industry leader.