Lockton has named Naji Abboud (pictured) as the senior executive officer (SEO) for its Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) branch, marking a new phase in the broker’s regional strategy.
Abboud, who has spent over 15 years with Lockton in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), will be responsible for leading the DIFC office and strengthening relationships with both insurers and reinsurers.
Before this appointment, Abboud served as managing director – wholesale for Lockton MENA, where he was involved in expanding the company’s regional footprint.
In a statement, Ata Khatib, chairman of Lockton MENA, commented that Naji Abboud has played a significant role in advancing the company’s achievements throughout the region.
“His leadership, strategic insight, and unwavering commitment to our clients make him the ideal choice to lead our DIFC operations. This appointment reinforces our ambition to deliver even greater value to our clients and partners,” he said.
Commenting on his appointment, Abboud noted that the DIFC serves as a central location for industry collaboration and new ideas.
“I’m honoured to take on the role of SEO at such a pivotal time for the insurance industry in the region. The DIFC is a dynamic hub for innovation and collaboration, and I look forward to working closely with our insurer and reinsurer partners to deliver tailored, forward-thinking solutions for our clients,” he said.
He also emphasised his commitment to developing future talent and building a team that embodies Lockton’s values.
“I’m equally passionate about nurturing the next generation of talent and building a team that reflects our values – entrepreneurial spirit, creative thinking, and client-first approach,” Abboud said.
The appointment is part of Lockton’s ongoing strategy to invest in leadership and talent development, as well as to enhance its service capabilities for clients in the MENA region.
The appointment comes after Lockton, Inc. reported global revenues of US$4 billion for the fiscal year ending April 30, 2025. The company stated that this marks its fifth consecutive year of double-digit organic growth.
International operations contributed over US$1 billion in revenue, representing a 15% increase in constant currency. In the US, Lockton’s revenue reached US$2.7 billion, up 11% from the previous year.
The company’s reinsurance arm, Lockton Re, recorded a 29% year-on-year increase in revenue, expanding its presence to 22 locations and employing more than 500 professionals.
The transaction liability practice also experienced notable growth, with a 59% increase in revenue and a record number of completed transactions.
Lockton attributed its performance to a focus on organic growth and client service.
