Loss adjuster announces senior hire as veteran retires

Woodgate and Clarke has appointed Mike Higgins as its new operations director.

Higgins succeeds Graeme Fitzpatrick, who has decided to retire.

His appointment comes as Woodgate and Clark and Van Ameyde UK confirmed plans to become one integrated business under the Woodgate and Clark brand.

As operations director, Higgins will take responsibility for day-to-day loss adjusting operations of the business and join the firm’s board of directors.

The appointee, who has close to three decades of experience in insurance and claims management, joins from Crawford, where he was most recently head of construction.

He joined the firm in 2015 and also held a range of senior real estate and field operations positions during his time with them.

Before this, he worked at GAB Robins as a liability adjuster and director of operations for property.

James Eveling, managing director at Woodgate and Clark, said: “We are delighted to attract someone of Higgin’s calibre to our business as we enter a very exciting chapter in our growth following the integration of Quadrassist and Spotlite Claims and as we plan to merge with Van Ameyde UK.

“It is vital that we remain focused on the solutions that make a difference to the cost of claims for insurance providers and for the end customer journey – Higgins has the right mix of experience and skills to ensure that focus remains steadfast, whilst also driving innovation and talent programmes.”

Retirement

His appointment comes following Fitzpatrick’s decision to retire after 12 years with the firm.

Among his highlights include ensuring a smooth transition when it was acquired by Van Ameyde Group in 2015.

He also managed a number of high-profile material damage, business interruption and third-party property claims across a range of industries.

Eveling said: “For over a decade, Fitzpatrick has been a dedicated and influential leader at Woodgate and Clark.

“His expertise, meticulous attention to detail and professionalism have elevated the company and earned high praise from both customers and colleagues across the business.”