There is a new UK operations director for Arthur J Gallagher.

Charles Crawford (pictured) was announced as taking the role earlier today, subject to regulatory approval, assuming some of the operational responsibilities of Michael Rea after his appointment as CEO of UK retail.

Crawford has been working with Gallagher since February 2016, as programme director, leading the delivery of the extensive change programme in the UK, which focuses on the strategic and effective integration of businesses and the creation of a scalable platform for future growth.

His 30-year insurance career has seen him undertake a raft of senior executive and leadership roles, with extensive experience in transformational change, at major UK insurance businesses including RBS Insurance and Churchill, as well as loss adjusting and claims solutions specialist Davies Group and, latterly, international assistance business CPP.

As UK operations director, Crawford will continue to head up Gallagher’s programme of investment, working with divisional COOs to ensure the structure, governance and operating models of its UK businesses maximise their operational effectiveness. 

“I’m delighted that Charles has agreed to take on this important role and become a permanent member of the team here at Gallagher,” commented Rea. “Over the past nine months Charles has driven and led a programme of transformational change. I know that his wealth of experience will be invaluable as we continue to simplify and enhance our operational effectiveness to create a fully scalable platform for future growth.”

Related Stories:
AJG recruits from JLT to expand credit, political risk teams
AJG secures insurance deal with UK university powerhouse