Crawford & Company (Australia) has made key leadership appointments, adding Mark McDermott (pictured) and Simon Davies to its specialty and account management divisions.
The hires align with the company’s broader efforts to strengthen its capabilities in loss adjusting and claims management.
McDermott, who has over 16 years of experience at QBE as head of claims relationships, steps into the role of key account manager at Crawford. His responsibilities will include managing major client accounts and fostering relationships with brokers and insurers.
McDermott said he has long respected Crawford’s approach to claims management.
“When the opportunity to work as part of the Crawford team arose, I absolutely embraced it. I’m truly excited about it, and I look forward to contributing alongside such a talented team,” he said.
Davies, now an executive adjuster within the specialty team, will be based on the Gold Coast. His background includes handling large-scale commercial losses, particularly those related to fire and storm damage, across industries such as aged care, hospitality, and mining.
He noted that Crawford’s focus on client needs and collaboration played a key role in his decision to join.
“I am looking forward to working in a close-knit environment, collaborating closely with these skilled professionals to provide our clients with the support and innovative solutions they require during their most critical times,” he said.
Crawford Australia president Jonathan Hubbard said the company remains focused on attracting experienced professionals.
“Both Mark and Simon have built outstanding reputations through their dedication to excellence in claims, and having known them for many years, I am absolutely delighted that they have joined Crawford,” he said.
Separately, Crawford has also promoted Jordan Hall to global data protection officer (DPO), effective Jan. 1.
Hall, who joined the company in May 2024 as a director within its global private office, takes over the role following the retirement of David Parker in February. Parker, who has spent 38 years at Crawford, most recently served as privacy director and group data protection officer.
Hall, based in the UK, reports to global chief privacy officer and deputy general counsel K Royal. His expertise includes implementing the UK’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and managing compliance issues during significant events such as COVID-19 and Brexit.
Royal said Hall’s leadership and experience in data protection will be valuable as the company navigates evolving regulatory requirements.
“I have no doubt that Jordan was and will continue to be a calming influence and steady leader throughout the challenges we face with emerging technology and growing regulatory landscape,” she said.
