Swansea-based insurance provider Waddle has been named a finalist for four awards at the COVER Women in Protection and Health Awards 2026.
From more than 1,000 nominations received, Waddle secured nine individual shortlistings, which it said was “an extraordinary feat for an SME with just under 50 employees, competing in a field where the majority of finalists came from large corporations”.
The firm said:
“The finalist announcements highlight Waddle's commitment to fostering an exceptional workplace and the outstanding contributions of its female colleagues. This achievement is especially resonant as the world marks International Women's Day, a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.”
The company and its female colleagues have been named finalists in the following categories:
- Outstanding Culture of Inclusivity – Mia Morgan, Assistant HR Manager
- Rising Star – Intermediary – Lilly-Marie Kreciala
- Woman of the Year – Customer Support – Andrea Chapman
- Outstanding Initiative of Support – Becca Clayson, HR Manager
The firm said the following about the finalists:
Lilly-Marie Kreciala, a finalist for Rising Star – Intermediary, represents the next generation of talent in the protection industry, and her journey embodies the Waddle ethos. Beginning her career as an apprentice unsure of her direction, Lilly joined the admin team before expanding into claims and stepping into management roles. Today, she not only excels in her own position but actively mentors and supports the development of other staff members, demonstrating the leadership and guidance that the Rising Star award celebrates.
Andrea Chapman, shortlisted for Woman of the Year – Customer Support, exemplifies Waddle's dedication to its clients, consistently going above and beyond to provide exceptional service. Her nomination honours professionals who deliver consistently outstanding support and make a meaningful difference to customers, a reflection of Andrea's daily impact.
Mia Morgan, a finalist for Outstanding Culture of Inclusivity, has spearheaded initiatives to enhance inclusion, employee engagement, and wellbeing across the organisation. Her dedication to fostering a supportive and diverse workplace has made a meaningful impact on both the culture and the everyday experience of Waddle employees.
Becca Clayson, shortlisted for Outstanding Initiative of Support, drives initiatives that enhance employee wellbeing, inclusion, and career development, ensuring all colleagues feel supported, valued, and empowered.
Waddle team members who were nominated this year but did not progress to the finalist stage are Nicola Smith and Aimee Bowditch (both nominated for Advisor of the Year), Charlotte Irvine (Unsung Hero – Intermediary), Paige Cockayne (Mentor of the Year), and Naomi Jeffs (Woman of the Year – Claims).
“It feels incredibly special to receive this news as we approach International Women's Day,” said Becca Clayson, HR Manager at Waddle.
“These finalist announcements are not just about individual achievement; they celebrate Waddles’ commitment to diversity, with the percentage of women in the company being a valuable and celebrated part of its culture. To see Lilly, Andrea, and Mia named as finalists alongside recognition for our team initiatives is a testament to the entire team's hard work. Lilly's journey from apprentice to mentor perfectly captures how we nurture talent here, through opportunity, support, and genuine belief in our people.”
The COVER Women in Protection and Health Awards are a leading voice in championing gender diversity and recognising excellence across the insurance sector. The winners will be announced at a ceremony in London later this year.
Last year the company won Legal & General's Outstanding Customer Outcome Award, Cover Excellence's Excellence in Customer Service Award and the Protection Review Intermediary of the Year Award.
