Gallagher Bassett has announced key appointments to its NSW workers’ compensation team ahead of next month becoming one of the state’s claims service providers. 

NSW state-owned insurer icare last year signed contracts with six providers, including Gallagher Bassett, as part of a new model to improve the performance of the workers’ compensation arrangements and to introduce more choice for larger employers. 

Gallagher Bassett says Craig Newton, who joined the company early last year, is leading its specialised service delivery model and that it has strengthened the senior leadership team with three appointments. 

“Craig's industry insight and leadership capability have made him a critical asset to our organisation,” COO Lionel Charmetant said. “With his guidance, we are well-positioned to provide effective claims services in partnership with icare for the benefit of the NSW community.”  

Gallagher Bassett says Rachel Timmermann has taken up the role of Manager, Operations (Technical), Sam Gyimah has been appointed Manager, Customer Experience and Lisa Odgers will be leading the front-line claims service teams as Manager Operations (Claims). 

icare said last year that new claims service contracts with Allianz, EML GIO and QBE would start from January 1, while DXC Technology and Gallagher Bassett were to be onboarded during the year. 

Gallagher Bassett said then that its selection under the new NSW model built on its workers’ compensation footprint in Victoria, SA and NT as well as its national presence in self-insurance. 

Changes to the NSW arrangements include allowing employers with a premium of more than $500,000 to be able to choose their preferred claims service provider at renewal, with Gallagher Bassett able to be selected from July 1.