EC3 Brokers hires JLT exec to drive growth in Middle East via Dubai

London-based EC3 Brokers has launched a new venture from the Dubai International Finance Centre from which it will target growth in the Middle East and Africa and hired an executive from JLT Re to lead this process.

The broker has hired Steve Hart as senior executive officer from JLT Re’s Dubai office, who will lead a team of four in Dubai. He will handle the construction and energy aspects of the business and oversee the team in Dubai which will target property, casualty, professional indemnity, political violence and marine classes. Hart will work closely with London-based chief executive officer Danny Driscoll.

Hart is a construction risk specialist with 40 years’ experience producing and placing large complex risks into Lloyd’s and the international reinsurance market. Prior to joining JLT Re in 2014, Hart held a variety of roles at RFIB, PWS and Arthur J Gallagher, having been a Lloyd’s broker since 1980.

The new venture, EC3 Brokers MEA, marks the strategic expansion of the company, which already has offices in London and the United States.

“The Middle East has reached a turning point and the region presents strong opportunity. This will enable us to bring great business to London and EC3 as a smaller brokerage is focussed on providing clients with the high level of service they expect and deserve," said Hart. "I look forward to building EC3 Brokers’ portfolio across the Middle East and Africa.”

Driscoll added: “Steve has a wealth of experience that provides a strong foundation as EC3 Brokers MEA establishes a regional presence. With the new team in Dubai, EC3 Brokers MEA will deliver specialised personal service, which is a primary focus for EC3 Brokers across all of our offices. We are excited to have him on board as the company gains headway and expands further afield.”

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