Gallagher Re appoints new chief executive for UK region

Gallagher Re has appointed Ian Kerton as chief executive of the reinsurance broker’s UK operations, a statement released today (15 May 2023) revealed.

He will take over the role from Tom Wakefield, who will assume the position of global chief executive from 1 June 2023.

Kerton has been with Gallagher Re as a partner in its UK business since 2021.

He said the business had undergone “transformational change on a global scale” since joining and was “delighted” to lead the UK team.

“As a business, we have an unrivalled blend of expertise, talent, passion and ambition, which has allowed us to create something truly special for clients and colleagues,” he said.

“I look forward to working with the team to continue to cultivate that point of difference and build on the huge momentum we have within the UK business.”

‘Best candidate’

Prior to joining Gallagher Re, Kerton was managing director of the UK property and casualty team at Guy Carpenter and a director of the UK board.

He also held multiple roles within the reinsurance industry over the last 30 years, including executive director at HSBC Insurance Brokers.

The role saw him head up the treaty broking team and was responsible for their business in the UK and Asia.

Kerton will take up his new position subject to regulatory approval.

Wakefield said Kerton was “a truly accomplished broker and leader who is well-respected by clients and colleagues alike”.

“Since joining Gallagher Re, he has shown an unwavering focus on client-advocacy, combined with strategic business acumen and strong people leadership,” Wakefield added. 

“He is absolutely the best candidate for this important leadership role and the fact that we have been able to recruit from within is testament to the incredible senior talent we have within Gallagher Re.”