H.W. Kaufman Group has announced its expansion into the Middle East with the establishment of Burns & Wilcox UAE.
This move involves a significant investment in CARE Insurance Brokers, a Dubai-based insurance and risk management firm. Subject to regulatory approval, CARE Insurance Brokers will undergo rebranding to become Burns & Wilcox UAE, signifying H.W. Kaufman Group's first venture into the Middle Eastern market.
The new office in Dubai's business district will be under the direction of Rajendran M, appointed to spearhead regional growth, and Aynis Ifthiker, tasked with managing the UAE office. Rajendran brings over 35 years of experience in the insurance sector, predominantly in the Middle East and India. His previous role was as managing director - Middle East of Al Futtaim Willis Co. LLC, a collaboration between Willis Towers Watson and Al Futtaim Group.
Ifthiker has a background with notable international brokers, including Sedgwick, HSBC, and Al Futtaim Willis. She has been recognised for her technical knowledge and strong relationships within key industries such as retail, real estate, and construction in the Middle East.
The Burns & Wilcox UAE team will closely collaborate with H.W. Kaufman International operations based in London, aiming to strengthen their global footprint and enhance service capabilities in the region.
“We have signalled to the marketplace that Kaufman is committed to global expansion, targeting financial and insurance hubs where our expertise and depth of market relationships will bring value to clients and serve as an important driver of long-term growth,” said Jodie Kaufman Davis, executive vice president at Kaufman. “Dubai is a major centre of commerce with business that can flow through Kaufman’s London and European platforms. We look forward to capitalizing on the numerous opportunities within the UAE and across the Middle East.”
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