HDI Global Specialty adds key hire in Toronto

HDI Global Specialty adds key hire in Toronto | Insurance Business Canada

Insurance News

HDI Global Specialty adds key hire in Toronto

Marsh alumnus joins from Zensurance

Insurance News

By
Terry Gangcuangco

The Canadian division of HDI Global Specialty SE has appointed Michael McDermott (pictured) as head of sports, entertainment, and contingency, effective March 18.

Bringing a wealth of insurance industry experience, McDermott’s expertise spans professional liability, risk management, property and casualty insurance, excess, and liability analysis. His background in sports entertainment is expected to deliver new insights and help accelerate growth.

McDermott, who also shared a career update, expressed enthusiasm about his new role: “I am looking forward to joining the team and contributing to HDI’s drive and growth in the entertainment & contingency space. We will continue to provide exciting and innovative solutions.”

Prior to joining HDI Global Specialty, the Marsh alumnus served as underwriting director at Zensurance. His credentials also include time spent at the likes of GFH Underwriting Agency, Simmlands Insurance Services, and Lombard Insurance.

Derek Spafford, managing director and chief agent at HDI Global Specialty Canada, welcomed McDermott, highlighting the strategic importance of his function.

“I am thrilled to be working with Michael as we expand business in sport, entertainment, and contingency,” Spafford said. “Mike will work closely with our specialist teams in Europe to leverage these strengths with his market experience to bring to bear in Canada an enhanced proposition for our brokers.

“We are confident that, as a new addition, he will further solidify and develop our position in the Canadian market.”

HDI Global Specialty has been operating its Canadian branch since 2011, supporting underwriting activities for delegated authority business and single-risk business.

Aside from entertainment and contingency, which covers sports professionals, film and TV stars, events, and musicians, its other capabilities under single-risk include professional & financial lines, aviation, and crisis management.

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