Lockton has appointed Marcus Pearson (pictured) as chief executive officer for its Pacific operations, effective Sept. 1.
The move comes as the privately owned global insurance brokerage seeks to strengthen its presence and client offerings across Australia and New Zealand.
Pearson’s appointment follows his recent role as chief commercial officer at Marsh McLennan Companies for the Pacific. In that post, he was responsible for commercial strategy and specialty business lines in both Australia and New Zealand.
His career includes senior leadership positions at Marsh, Marsh McLennan, and JLT Australia, with experience spanning business development, risk management, and general insurance.
Pearson’s insurance sector experience covers more than 20 years, including executive roles in both Australia and New Zealand. At Marsh McLennan, he led specialty operations and managed growth initiatives across the Pacific region.
Earlier, as managing director of business development at JLT Australia, Pearson was a member of the executive board, overseeing marketing and sales strategy.
His earlier roles at Marsh included responsibility for strategic risk and competitive strategy in the Asia Pacific region.
Pearson’s professional background also includes expertise in reinsurance, property and casualty insurance, and broker management.
Pearson’s mandate at Lockton Pacific will include expanding the firm’s market share, strengthening client relationships, and maintaining the company’s independent business culture.
Chris Brown, CEO of Lockton International, pointed out Marcus Pearson’s background in managing client relationships and driving business growth in both Australia and New Zealand supports Lockton’s aims for its operations in the Pacific.
“I would like to welcome Marcus to Lockton. He has a fabulous track record focusing on clients and business growth in Australia and New Zealand. Marcus’s unique experience working with clients and associates will help us build on the substantial growth we have seen in our Pacific business,” he said.
Pearson said he aims to work closely with the Lockton team to support ongoing business growth.
“I’m honoured to join Lockton at such a pivotal time,” he said. “Lockton’s entrepreneurial spirit and people-first approach are what drew me to the business. I look forward to working with the team to build on the great momentum already underway.”
The appointment comes at a time of ongoing change in the insurance broking sector in Australia and New Zealand.
The industry has experienced growth in demand for brokers able to address rising insurance costs, regulatory changes, and evolving client needs.
According to recent industry data, Australia’s insurance broking market is valued at over $21 billion, with more than 5,000 brokerages operating nationwide.
