Gallagher appoints new broking managing director for UK retail division

Global broker and risk management firm Gallagher has appointed Simon Collings as its new managing director of the national broking and placement team within its UK retail division.

In his new role, Collings will oversee Gallagher’s national broking strategy and placement activities, working closely with regional directors across the firm’s 70-strong branch network.

Gallagher’s national broking and placement team is responsible for the placement of corporate UK and international insurance for new and existing clients, managing insurer relationships as well as product and business development.

Collings succeeds Mark Armitage, who retired from the business at the end of March following a seven-year tenure.

Collings, who has more than 30 years of industry experience, initially joined Gallagher in 2017 as the company’s market management director for UK retail business. Prior to this, Collings held senior placement-related positions at rivals Marsh, JLT and Miller.

Playing a ‘pivotal role’

Michael Rea, chief executive of Gallagher’s UK retail division, said: “Simon has long-standing insurer relationships and expertise in managing risks for clients from a range of industries, and will play a pivotal role in steering our regional broking and placement teams to deliver insurance solutions that mitigate complex risks facing our clients.

“Investing in talent is an important part of our long-term growth strategy – and I am very pleased that we have made this key leadership appointment from within our existing team.”

Collings added: “Having been part of Gallagher since 2017, I’m delighted to have the opportunity now to take the helm of this team, following in the footsteps of Mark Armitage, who has been instrumental in overseeing Gallagher’s strategic placement direction over recent years.

“The ability to broker the best deals for our clients is vital in order to retain and develop new business. I look forward to working with our regional teams to build our existing broking capabilities, strengthen our insurer relationships and develop new products.”