McLarens bullish on LatAm growth as it welcomes new leader

McLarens, a global loss adjuster specialising in complex and commercial claims, is bullish on expanding its presence and service capabilities in Latin America as a new managing director takes helm of its business.

Leonardo Garzon will succeed Howard Laidlaw, who is retiring after 14 years with the firm. Laidlaw will maintain a consultancy role with the firm on special projects.

In his role as managing director for Latin America, Garzon will take the lead on strategic growth, client services and business development in the region, overseeing a network of 16 offices and affiliates operating across North, Central and South America. Operating from McLarens’ Miami, Florida office, he will serve clients throughout the US, Caribbean, and Latin America.

Garzon has 25 years of experience in forensic engineering, construction vulnerabilities, and pre-loss and post-loss consulting. His extensive experience in the provision of risk and loss adjusting services includes advising on high value disputes within the energy, oil, transportation, commercial and residential property sectors.

He joins from J.S. HELD, and previously served in executive roles with Desimone Consulting Engineers, LIU, and Thornton Tomasetti.

Gary Brown, chief executive officer of McLarens, said: “I am excited to welcome Leo Garzon as our new Managing Director in Latin America. His substantial industry experience, technical expertise and leadership credentials means he is well placed to lead McLarens LatAm into the future. I have tremendous confidence in Leo’s ability to foster innovation, quality, and the development of our team across the region.

He added: "On behalf of McLarens, I’d also like to thank Howard for his invaluable leadership in Latin America and his commitment to McLarens’ core values of technical excellence, client focus and respect for his LATAM team. He has helped position the business for sustainable future growth in the region and his ability to attract and retain the best talent will stand as an enduring testament to his concern and care for McLarens’ continued success.”

Garzon commented: “I am honored to join McLarens as the Managing Director for Latin America and I am proud to join a team of professionals with deep technical expertise, complex claims experience, and extensive knowledge of their local markets. I look forward to further strengthening our Latin America team and expanding our service capabilities to deliver the best experience possible to our clients in the region and beyond.”

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