Arthur J Gallagher (AJG) will start the search for a new Australian CEO following the resignation of Andrew Godden.

As revealed in a Breaking News bulletin last week, Mr Godden is to take over as BMS Group’s Australian CEO.

He has spent seven years in charge of Gallagher’s Australian broking operations since it acquired the business he co-founded, Specialist Broking Associates. He has overseen many changes, including the purchase of OAMPS from Wesfarmers in 2014.

In an email to staff, Mr Godden says the decision to leave was not taken lightly, but he feels the time is right for a new challenge.

“The role has grown beyond what anyone could have imagined and I have really enjoyed the opportunity to be part of that journey,” he said.

“The growth and reach of AJG since 2010 has been massive and I still believe in AJG and its cause, its values and its direction.

“I have no doubt that through the leadership team that is in place and the commitment of the AJG executive, AJG will achieve its goal of becoming the largest and most admired broking company in Australia.”

UK-based specialist insurance and reinsurance broker BMS has a small but growing Australian presence, and sees the appointment of Mr Godden as a milestone in its regional development.

Mr Godden will be based in Sydney and report directly to CEO Nick Cook.

He has a 12-month notice period and will not start with BMS until his contractual obligations to Gallagher expire.

“BMS has been building its reputation in Australia and the wider Asia-Pacific and I’m delighted that the entrepreneurial culture we have created has allowed us to attract an individual of Andrew Godden’s calibre,” Mr Cook said.

“Andrew shares our belief in an employee-owned business with an absolute focus on high-quality customer service, which will be invaluable as we expand our reach across the region.”