Lockton has appointed Michael Woodlands to the newly created role of Head of Sport, Australia & Pacific.

Sydney-based Mr Woodlands joins after more than 12 years at EML, where he led the National Client Services team.

The new Lockton Sport specialty area will form part of its extended Employee Benefits division and the company says it will offer players, clubs, fans and strategic partners technology and innovation.

Lockton says it is approaching sport risk and insurance in “new and creative ways” to develop whole-of-game solutions for elite athletes, local participants, administrators and spectators.