Insurance and commercial risk law firm BLM has bolstered its roster – snapping up Damian Cleary (pictured) and Gavin Coull from US-based Foran Glennon’s London office.
The two new partners have joined BLM at Plantation Place to serve as head of London Market and of reinsurance, respectively.
Tapped to drive the law firm’s increased focus upon Lloyd’s and London Market insurers, Cleary brings with him more than two decades of legal experience in the Lloyd’s and London (re)insurance markets. He specialises in business interruption, accident and health, property, onshore energy and engineering, and directors and officers.
“BLM has a solid reputation with London’s insurers, reinsurers, and brokers,” noted Cleary, who also has international legal expertise. “I want BLM to be seen increasingly as part of the fabric of EC3 and its connections both locally and globally.”
Coull, meanwhile, has extensive experience of litigation, arbitration, and alternative dispute resolution in several markets including London, Bermuda, and the US. He specialises in dispute resolution for reinsurers and their clients, across non-marine classes such as property, specie, political risk, engineering, casualty, and pharmaceutical.
“Bringing in two partners of Damian and Gavin’s pedigree is a sign of our ongoing commitment to enhance our offering to the London insurance market and the markets it serves globally,” commented senior partner Matthew Harrington.
He explained: “By adding such strength and depth we will be able to deliver more across the spectrum, from niche London & Lloyd’s specialists to global carriers alike, and their international experience and connections will undoubtedly broaden our contacts, expertise, and capability to the benefit of our existing and future client base.”
The partners’ current and former firms are both members of insurance law firms network Global Insurance Law Connect.
“Gavin and I are looking forward to continuing the relationship we enjoy with our clients, together with the involvement of the experts within the BLM team to create opportunities for growth in the London Market,” added Cleary.
