Dero Courtage, a risk adviser and insurance broker with a strong presence in Normandy, is now part of Willis Towers Watson.

Announcing the swoop without disclosing the terms of the transaction, the broking giant said Dero Courtage will now operate under the brand of its French business, Gras Savoye Willis Towers Watson France. Headquartered in Le Havre, the acquired firm has been developing its insurance broking expertise for more than 80 years.

“The Dero team brings a wealth of experience and industry knowledge, and I’d like to offer them a warm welcome,” commented Paul Morris, head of Western Europe at Willis Towers Watson. “France is a key market for us and this move reinforces our leading position as a global adviser with an extensive local network.”

Gras Savoye Willis Towers Watson France is the first insurance broker in the country. Its managing director, Gilles Bénéplanc, believes Normandy holds clear growth potential.

“I am thrilled by this deal, which builds on our strategy to develop and strengthen our regional network,” said Bénéplanc.

According to the announcement, Dero Courtage chief executive Christophe Dero will serve as managing director of the new business unit, with support from the senior management team of Jérôme Lees and Bruno Poyac. Meanwhile the existing teams in Le Havre will remain as clients’ main contacts.

“Joining such a prominent French risk adviser enables us to benefit from the full strength of Willis Towers Watson, and the wide range of solutions they offer, including human capital management,” noted Dero. “It will allow us to consolidate and expand our ability to support our clients in their development and their access to new markets, especially in international business.”