AJG appoints aviation directors

Arthur J Gallagher (AJG) has appointed two divisional directors for its aviation area, Mark Champion and Paul Rogers.

AJG said the additions show its continued investment in the breadth and depth of its aviation expertise, both in terms of class and geographic jurisdiction, diversifying its portfolio to the benefit of clients and insurers alike.

Champion joins Gallagher with more than 30 years’ experience in the London market. He most recently served as regional director for continental Europe for Willis Towers Watson. Here he held responsibility for a significant proportion of the aerospace division’s budget, was a member of its leadership team and led a team of 15 while continuing to manage a large portfolio of clients as a risk placement specialist to the airline industry, with a core focus on European Airlines.

He began his career at Leslie and Godwin in 1985, before moving to the general aviation division of Willis in 1994.

Rogers joins Gallagher with nearly 40 years’ London market experience. He has had former roles at Willis and Willis Faber and Dumas.

Mark Walters, executive director of aviation for AJG, said: “Today’s aviation market is arguably more challenging than ever, but we see that as every reason to grow, expand and develop new products — rather than a reason not to.

“To win out in such a tough market, you need to invest in the best. And there are few more experienced than Mark and Paul, or held in higher regard by clients. The longevity and strength of market relationships they have built and their continued focus on providing a personalised, innovative and responsive end-to-end client service make them ideally suited to join our team.

He added: “I very much look forward to having them on board and ensuring our clients gain the benefit of their extensive expertise.”