Willis Network to go international

Willis has unveiled plans to expand its broker network, Willis Commercial Network, around the world.

Willis has appointed Mark Radburn as chief executive of Willis Networks International to oversee the expansion. Radburn, who has developed and led Willis Networks for seven years, will report to Sarah Turvill, chief executive, Willis International. Phil Scarrett, currently managing director of Willis UK & Ireland’s commercial business, will succeed Radburn as managing director, Willis Networks, in the UK, and will continue to report to UK & Ireland chief executive Brendan McManus.

Willis Networks was established in the UK in 1999 and is comprised of the Willis Commercial Network, representing more than 81 regional brokers who place in excess of £350m in premium; and Willis N2, which represents 21 smaller, community brokers who place around £50m in premium.

Members of Willis Networks receive technical and sales training from Willis, as well as strategic marketing, compliance, business development and sales support, along with access to Willis’ global placement and industry resources.

McManus said: “The key to the success of Willis Networks has been the independence of its members and their access to our strong trading relationships with leading insurers, cutting-edge technology and business support and training services.

"We believe that the name we have created for our networks in the UK will resonate in other markets around the world and have appointed Mark to lead the initial charge in to Europe and Latin America. The UK networks remain the jewel in our crown and Phil’s experience will help us reach our goals of growing the Willis Commercial Network to 100 members and Willis N2 to 120 members by 2011.”