London-headquartered managing general agent Landmark Underwriting, which earlier this year achieved chartered status and expanded into Canada, has made board member David Ratledge its first-ever managing director.
Ratledge came onboard the MGA in 2020, bringing three decades of industry experience to Landmark. He is described as having been integral in the company’s ongoing strategic and operational development.
“I feel hugely fortunate to have this opportunity,” commented Ratledge, who was picked among external and internal candidates alike. “It’s a huge privilege that the owners of Landmark have seen in me the qualities needed to continue what has been built and now to take the business forward.
“I care tremendously about the firm and all of the individuals within it. I am really looking forward to working closely with my fellow directors, including non-executive chairman Peter Staddon, and all the individuals at Landmark, including our broking partners and service providers, who have been instrumental in building Landmark over the years plus during what has been a very challenging, yet rewarding, year.”
It was previously announced that Staddon’s stint as non-executive chair has been extended for another two years. “My continuation puts us in an excellent position at an exciting time,” said the former Managing General Agents’ Association managing director in late October.
Meanwhile, according to Ross Lazaroo-Hood, one of Landmark’s founders and owners, the firm has “many ambitious plans” for further growth.
He stated: “I and the other owners of Landmark are excited to see David Ratledge heading up the London HQ and seizing the opportunities that our MGA has going forward plus seeing through its upcoming exciting plans. I wish him well on his new journey, and I am looking forward to seeing what he and the rest of our team can achieve together under his leadership.”
Separately, finance manager Melaney Brown was recently promoted to Landmark’s financial and operations director. The new board member said Landmark’s growth has been “phenomenal”.
