DUAL, the global underwriting firm, has announced two new country leaders.

In a media release, Damien Coates (main picture), CEO of DUAL ANZ, said Michael Ussher is now managing director of DUAL Australia and Paula Sheppard-Jones is DUAL New Zealand’s managing director.

‘’These appointments are important in communicating clear direction to our people and clients that Michael and Paula have ultimate responsibility for the delivery of our products and services,” said Coates. 

He said the firm has “a very clear strategy” to grow business across ANZ from $500 million to $1 billion gross written premium (GWP) in the next five years.

“This [the new appointments] allows me to continue my focus on driving strategic growth for ANZ across areas such as product diversification and acquisitions,” said Coates.

 The release said the two new MDs are in charge of “operational management” for the region.