With almost forty years of insurance industry experience – and more than twenty-five of those with Whitbread – Lia de Sousa brings deep expertise, vision and integrity to her role as Chief Executive Officer.

Throughout her career, Lia has built a reputation for authentic leadership, technical excellence and a client-centred approach. She has been instrumental in shaping Whitbread’s growth, strengthening its reputation for specialist insurance advice and fostering long-standing relationships built on trust and care.

Prior to appointment as CEO, Lia led Whitbread’s Strata division as Executive General Manager, overseeing a team dedicated to delivering tailored insurance and risk management solutions for residential and commercial properties. Under her leadership, the team achieved sustained growth and is now recognised across the industry for its professionalism and collaborative approach.

Lia believes that genuine understanding begins with listening – ensuring clients and colleagues alike are empowered to make confident, informed decisions.

Her leadership continues to guide Whitbread’s commitment to excellence, innovation and meaningful connection across every part of the business. Lia is deeply involved in setting the strategic direction of Whitbread, championing initiatives that support growth, strengthen client partnerships and empower her team to deliver outstanding outcomes. Clients remain at the heart of the business, and Lia is passionate about ensuring their needs are always reflected in every major objective and decision.

Lia is a Tier 1 compliant insurance broker and an active contributor to the insurance and strata industries through her engagement with professional associations and industry bodies.