Former JLT executive Leo Demer commences today in the newly created role of Lockton Pacific President, with responsibility for accelerating identified areas of growth for the business, including the attraction of talent.

Mr Demer, who brings more than 35 years’ experience in the insurance industry, will report to and work closely with CEO Australia and Pacific Region Paul Marsden.

Mr Demer says clients are facing more complex risks in an uncertain and ever-changing world and Lockton can be nimble in meeting their needs, and has a culture that allows it to make things happen and get things done, with the ability to put new strategies and teams in place in real time.

“We are posting significant organic growth numbers in an industry where growth is typically driven by acquisitions,” he told insuranceNEWS.com.au. “As we forge ahead, we have the freedom to continue putting industry-leading talent in front of clients and not be distracted by shareholder demands.”

Mr Demer, based in Sydney, was JLT Australasian CEO for 10 years, served as a member of the Group Executive Committee and became a senior adviser to global CEO Dominic Burke. In recent years he has been consulting to JLT Public Sector and Marsh. JLT was acquired by Marsh in 2019.

Lockton says Mr Demer’s leadership at JLT resulted in the former company’s significant rise in the high-end corporate space, with the firm winning major accounts and representing about 13 of the top 50 companies on the Australian Securities Exchange at the time. During his tenure, JLT was also providing cover for more than 90% of local councils.

“I am delighted such an acclaimed, seasoned leader known for delivering outperformance and extraordinary results for clients has joined Lockton,” CEO Australia and Pacific Region Paul Marsden said last week.

Lockton, founded in Kansas City, Missouri, says it is the world’s largest privately owned insurance broker, and the eighth largest overall. The Pacific region includes Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands.