Law firm Wotton + Kearney (W + K) has established a new operational base in Singapore, marking a first for a major Australian insurance and risk law firm of its stature.
This strategic decision highlights Singapore's crucial role as a regional centre connecting the insurance and reinsurance sectors of London and Europe.
The firm's Singapore office, set to commence operations in June, aims to support developments in infrastructure, power generation, and renewable energy throughout the region.
Chief executive partner David Kearney said that the new office is W + K's 10th location within the Asia Pacific and its initial step into mainland Asia.
“Our move to Singapore reflects the global nature of the insurance industry and the importance of Singapore as a regional insurance hub. Our growth has always been client driven, and we know that an expanded Asian offering will make us a better business partner for our insurer clients which provide insurance to businesses across the region,” he said.
Adam Chylek, the firm's head of property, energy, and infrastructure, noted Singapore's strategic significance in the global insurance network, serving as a vital link between the London/European markets and the Australian sector.
“All of the significant international insurers and reinsurers have a base in Singapore, and many of them are our established clients, so it makes sense for us to invest heavily in the region. I think we're the first major Australian insurance law firm to head from Australia and invest in Asia; the traffic is normally the other way around, with London insurance firms heading south,” he said.
Leadership for the Singapore outpost will come from Ben Nicholson, previously with Kennedys Singapore, who will be joined by partner Tom Morrison.
Nicholson, who is recognised for his specialisation in the insurance and reinsurance sectors, focusing on property, energy, engineering, and infrastructure risks, brings a wealth of experience from the Asia Pacific, as well as the UK, Middle East, and North Africa.
