Munich Re unit Roanoke launches in Dubai with hiring of Besso MENA chief

Roanoke International Brokers has launched a specialist reinsurance brokerage business in Dubai under Roanoke MENA, a wholly owned subsidiary of  Munich Re Specialty Group (MRSG), with the hiring of Besso Middle East chief executive.

The new Dubai entity will focus on providing reinsurance broking across the Middle East, North Africa region and Asia Pacific markets.

Roanoke MENA will be led by David Howells (pictured) who joins as senior executive officer from the Dubai operation of Lloyd's specialist re/insurance broker Besso, where he was chief executive officer/senior executive officer, spearheading the business’ operations in the Middle East.

With over a decade of experience in the re/insurance industry, Howells will be responsible for driving the establishment and growth of Roanoke MENA.

Roanoke MENA will look to maximise its relationships within the wider MRSG group by increasing the reach and distribution of the group’s technologies, products and services to the regional markets. It will work with the respective regional units for Munich Re to identify opportunities where collaboration can enhance the service and experience for all stakeholders.

While Roanoke MENA will focus predominantly on cedants within the MENA region, the team will also be looking to develop relationships with cedants and producers of business in both the Indian Subcontinent and the Southeast Asian markets.

Steve Russ, chief executive officer of Roanoke, said: “The launch of Roanoke (MENA) builds on our years of experience in the London market, where we have built up longstanding relationships with key Lloyd’s underwriters and selective market companies. Our focus on tailoring products and programmes in support of our clients’ goals will continue to be a foundation of the Roanoke business in the MENA region and we look forward to bringing David’s regional and business growth experience to bear.”

Howells commented: “The (re)insurance market in the MENA region encompasses varied cultures, languages, political situations and regulations, making it a complex landscape for clients to navigate. Roanoke (MENA) will be working to develop relationships across the region and support clients by creating tailored (re)insurance programmes that take into account the macro and microeconomic factors and help them to realise their goals.

“It is hugely exciting to have the chance to establish and lead Roanoke’s Middle East office and play a part in supporting the growth of our clients’ businesses across the region.”

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