
Insurance and risk management firm Gallagher has appointed Ryan Witchard as Executive Director of its Middle East & Africa Marine practice.

Based at Gallagher’s regional headquarters in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), Witchard will collaborate closely with the firm’s London-based Specialty Marine team, one of the world’s largest marine broking operations, to deliver comprehensive solutions for clients across the globe.
Witchard joins Gallagher from Marsh, where he held broking roles in both London and the Middle East since 2018.
He began his career in 2012 at a specialist marine broker in London, initially focusing on Protection & Indemnity insurance before expanding into broader marine coverage. He will report to Nadim Semaan, Middle East & Africa SEO.
Semaan added: “As the region focuses on further diversification the Middle East will cement its position as one of the key global maritime hubs. With Ryan at the helm of our marine practice Gallagher is well positioned for expansion and supporting our clients with all their insurance needs. We focus on providing in-depth sector knowledge from risk professionals that understand the risks clients are facing and can advise accordingly. Ryan has a strong track record both in the region and in maritime risks and it is fantastic to have him onboard.”
Witchard said: “Gallagher has been based in the Middle East since 2022 during which time it has built an impressive scale business, and I am looking forward to helping to further expand its marine portfolio working with its existing team of specialists. With a deep understanding of the maritime sector both in the region and globally, we are well positioned in providing a unique offering to the maritime community and help them to navigate the evolving risk landscape.”