Marine specialist Ropner, part of GRP’s London Market business Lonmar Global Risks, has appointed experienced marine broker Gareth Evans into its hull and liability team.
Gareth joins Ropner from Everard and will team up again with his ex-colleague and now divisional director Matthew Lang, who also worked at Everard before heading to Ropner in 2017.
Matthew said: “Gareth’s appointment signals our intent to spearhead a major push in the retail space for marine. We believe there is plenty of headroom for growth post Covid-19.”
The Ropner team provides direct to customer insurance for tugs, barges and other privately owned commercial vessels, and is one of the largest providers of D2C insurance in London, a world-leading centre for marine insurance.
He said: “The Ropner marine division has a strong international presence beyond the UK. Gareth will be part of a fast-growing growing department, joining a team of experienced brokers positioned to handle all marine classes.” He added that he expected to make more appointments during the next quarter.
“We are hungry for business in the commercial marine market. It is generally a stable sector that is going through some hardening but there has been significant growth in some areas, such as renewables, that we aim to capture.”
“Our primary focus is on building a team of sector-experts and focusing on organic growth, although we remain open to acquisitions if the opportunity arises and they make strategic sense.”
Commenting on his new role, Gareth said: “It’s great to be working alongside Matthew again, and he painted a compelling picture of the opportunity at Ropner.”
“Ropner’s marine broking business has market leading expertise and excellent relationships with insurer partners in the London Market. I’m excited to be a part of that skillset.”
“The team is fully focused on growing its market share in the UK and internationally, and I’m keen to get out there and assist with the development and success of this exciting opportunity.”
About Gareth Evans
Gareth was previously Marine Manager at Everard (2017-19). He joined the Everard marine broking team in 2013. Prior to Everard, Gareth worked for Knighthood Corporate Assurance in 2012.