Gallagher names new managing director for brand partners

Insurance broker Gallagher has appointed Kimberley Kealing as managing director of the brand partners team within its UK retail division.

In her new role, Kealing will be responsible for optimising opportunities with existing partners, developing new strategic partnerships, increasing operational performance and product development.

Gallagher’s brand partners team manages affinity relationships with UK insurers and financial services brands, including Direct Line, esure and Santander.

Kealing has worked in Gallagher’s brand partners team since 2016, having originally joined Heath Lambert in 2004 before its acquisition by Gallagher in 2011. Prior to that, she worked for RSA in a number of claims leadership roles.

Susan Young, managing director, private clients & personal lines, Gallagher’s UK retail division, said: “Ensuring that we sure we invest in our people and expertise is a vital part of our long-term growth strategy – and it’s great to see how the talent within our UK team allows us to find next generation of leaders within Gallagher.

“Kimberley has expert market knowledge and the ability to develop strong relationships with her client-first approach - and is the natural choice to take over the helm of this growing part of our UK Retail division.”

Kealing commented: “Having been part of Brand Partners since 2016, I’m delighted to have the opportunity now to lead the team and build on the growth that we’ve achieved over the past few years.

“Our Brand Partners offering is built on a collaborative approach. By working with us, our partners are able to give customers a positive brand experience by directing them to an alternative source of insurance rather than having to refuse cover. We can offer quotes on non-standard homes, with the potential for other classes if clients require. With the current challenging underwriting environment, this gives our partners increased flexibility to help new and existing customers.”