Gallagher has announced that Simon Collings has been appointed managing director of the national broking & placement team within its UK Retail Division.
In his new role, Simon will oversee Gallagher’s national broking strategy and placement activities, working closely with the regional directors of its 70-strong branch network.
With over 30 years’ insurance experience, Simon joined Gallagher in 2017 as market management director for UK Retail. Prior to joining Gallagher, Simon held several senior positions at Marsh, JLT and Miller, in placement roles.
Simon succeeds Mark Armitage, who retired at the end of March after seven years at Gallagher.
Gallagher’s national broking & 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.
Simon Collings, managing director of national broking & placement, Gallagher’s UK Retail Division, said: “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.”
Michael Rea, CEO, Gallagher’s UK Retail Division, added: “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.”