Paul Robinson (pictured), who was head of distribution at terrorism reinsurance scheme Pool Re, has ended his garden leave and joined the political violence and terrorism business of Geo Specialty.
“I am passionate about terrorism insurance and in particular the need to raise risk awareness and cover among SMEs,” stated Robinson, who will be working with brokers across the country in his capacity as business development manager (BDM).
“While there are 5.4 million SMEs in the UK equating to 99% of total UK businesses, it’s estimated only 5% actually buy terrorism insurance – or are even aware that their standard policy excludes the cover.”
A Chartered Insurance Institute fellow and a Chartered insurer, the key hire said it was with the abovementioned numbers in mind that he was attracted to Geo Specialty, the London Market business within Chartered insurance underwriting agent Geo Underwriting.
Robinson, whose credentials also include time spent at Eagle Star and Zurich, added: “I was looking for a forward-looking, ambitious, and agile company, that is broker- and client-focused, and who share my passion to drive terrorism insurance take-up.”
For Geo Specialty terrorism and political violence head Marcus Meredith, the new BDM is a “fantastic addition” to the team amid the shifting risk landscape.
“The pandemic has put the spotlight on business interruption (BI) wordings, and we’ve had an increase in enquiries from businesses who appreciate the certainty our policies provide for non-damage BI claims,” noted Meredith.
“We’ve also had an uplift in business from brokers who are expanding their search for alternative terrorism cover to reduce the overall property premium to their client overall.
The terrorism and political violence head believes having Robinson onboard will strengthen Geo Specialty’s ability to give brokers the necessary tools to advise clients on terrorism coverage, pricing, and placement strategy.
Commenting on the appointment, Geo Specialty managing director Nick Sharp asserted: “This is another example of how, as a specialist MGA, we are adding to our knowledge and expertise to further enhance our specialist offerings.
“Paul is a major addition to the successful team led by Marcus, and I am sure he will bring all of his knowledge and experience to bear as the Geo political violence business continues to go from strength to strength.”
