Claims manager Gallagher Bassett has expanded in New Zealand by acquiring the business book of third-party administrator Cosignia and hiring its CEO as its New Zealand MD.

Craig Furness has replaced Shayne Milsom, who returns to Gallagher Bassett Australia.

Seventeen Cosignia employees have moved with Mr Furness.

Mr Furness told insuranceNEWS.com.au Gallagher Bassett has acquired the operating business of Cosignia, which provides services to more than 80,000 people.

Cosignia specialises in group risk and group health insurance services to insurers, employers and advisers.

Gallagher Bassett has operated in New Zealand for more than 10 years and will fold the Cosignia book into its workers’ compensation and injury management operations.