At INSTANDA, we believe in celebrating the brilliance and innovation of our clients. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce the launch of the second annual INSPIRE (INSTANDA Partner Innovation and Recognition Excellence) Awards. This global initiative spotlights outstanding achievements across our client community, highlighting how insurers leverage our platform to transform insurance and redefine what’s possible.
To launch the 2025 INSPIRE awards, we spoke with Katy Murray, INSTANDA’s VP of Client Success and lead judge, to share her insights on what makes this recognition program so exciting.
Introducing Katy Murray
With nearly two decades of experience in the insurance industry, Katy brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her role at INSTANDA. Her career spans diverse areas of the insurance sector, from life insurance policyholder services to working in the property and casualty space. Today, she uses this experience to help clients leverage the full benefits of INSTANDA.
“Having worked on both the carrier and agency side, I’ve seen the complexities clients face firsthand. That experience drives my passion for supporting clients in their digital innovation efforts,” she explained.
The Meaning of the Awards
Back for a second year, the INSPIRE Awards are a celebration of the creativity and ingenuity of INSTANDA’s clients. “It’s incredible to see how each client uses our platform differently,” Katy shares. “One might leverage INSTANDA for submissions, while another maximizes it across the policy administration lifecycle—from quote to policy servicing. The awards provide a unique opportunity to spotlight how flexible and transformative our platform can be.”
For Katy, the value lies in sharing these success stories. “The awards are about more than just acknowledging technical achievements. They’re about relaying our clients’ inspiring journeys—how they’re tackling challenges, solving problems, and making real-world impacts on their customers and business.”
Meet the 2025 INSPIRE Awards Judges
Joining Katy on the judging panel are several esteemed insurance industry experts who bring a diverse range of expertise and perspectives to the awards:
- David Clamp, Founder of The Camelot Network, who brings a forward-thinking, collaborative perspective from across the insurance industry.
- Patti Harman, Editor-in-Chief of Digital Insurance, an industry leader known for her keen editorial insight on trends shaping the future of insurance.
- Michael Keating, CEO of the Managing General Agents' Association, whose work helps to promote innovation within the MGA community.
- Juan Mazzini, Director at Celent, a respected analyst lending a global perspective and digital transformation expertise to the panel.
- Hayley Dalton, Editor of Modern Insurance Magazine, bringing an editorial lens and understanding of broader technology developments.
Highlights from Last Year’s Awards
The 2024 INSPIRE Awards brought compelling stories to light, from breakthrough product innovations to seamless customer experiences. For Katy, one standout highlight was witnessing the breadth of creativity across the submissions.
“It was amazing to see the variety and depth in how clients stretched the use of our platform across different categories,” she recalled. “Each entry showcased a unique approach to leveraging INSTANDA’s capabilities, whether by improving efficiencies, launching transformative digital journeys, or breaking into new markets.”
What to Expect this year?
Katy, along with the other judges, is looking forward to delving into the unique use-cases for INSTANDA. “The insurance industry has evolved so much over the years. With the pace of change that we’re seeing today, there’s no shortage of innovation, and the awards are proof of this,” Katy shares.
With the growing collaboration between insurtech and digital ecosystems, Katy sees INSTANDA’s global capabilities playing a crucial role. “Our platform supports clients not just regionally but globally. Seeing how clients adapt INSTANDA to fit their specific needs, no matter where they operate, really excites me.”
What Makes a Winning Entry?
For those entering the awards, Katy offered valuable advice. “The judging panel is looking for something beyond just technical specifications. We want to hear the story behind your success,” she explained.
Here are her tips to stand out:
- Share a Clear Journey: Highlight the problems your team faced and how INSTANDA helped solve them. “It’s about more than just features—explain the transformative impact your solution is having on your business and customers,” Katy advised.
- Show Real-World Impact: Specific examples, backed by metrics, testimonials, or before-and-after snapshots, will leave a strong impression.
- Be Creative: Don’t shy away from visual tools like videos or interactive elements to bring your story to life.
To Katy, one key takeaway is clear: “Don’t hold back! This is your time to showcase how you’ve creatively used INSTANDA to drive change. Share your challenges, your solutions, and your outcomes.”
Get Inspired, and Get Started
The INSPIRE Awards are your opportunity to gain well-deserved recognition for your innovation and impact.
We’ve deliberately made the award nomination process simple. All you need to do is answer three quick questions detailing your challenge or opportunity, your solution, and measurable outcomes.
Nominations are open through the end of July, and winners will be celebrated virtually in October.
To submit an entry, please reach out to your INSTANDA Account Manager to find out more. Our marketing team is also on hand to help with your entry.
Good luck, and we look forward to receiving your submission!
