Global insurance broker Gallagher has appointed Andy Winwood as Senior Executive Officer (SEO) for the Middle East & Africa, subject to regulatory approval. He will oversee the company’s regional business, lead a team of more than 100 employees and drive Gallagher’s expansion across the Middle East.
Winwood joined Gallagher in 2025 after spending more than 35 years in the insurance industry. He brings extensive experience in risk management and deep knowledge of the Middle East insurance market.
Andy Winwood to oversee regional growth strategy
In his new role, Winwood will lead Gallagher’s operations across the Middle East and Africa. He will also focus on strengthening the company’s regional presence and expanding client services across key industries.
Before joining Gallagher, Winwood served as Senior Risk and Insurance Consultant at Saudi Arabian Oil Company (Aramco). Earlier in his career, he held several senior broking and captive management roles in both the UK and the Middle East. He began his insurance career with a Lloyd’s broker in 1990.
Winwood will report to Simon Matson, Senior Vice President of Gallagher Global Broking.
Gallagher continues Middle East expansion
Gallagher established its direct presence in the Middle East in 2022. Since then, the company has provided specialty insurance, risk management and advisory services to sectors including aerospace, construction, natural resources, financial services and marine.
Moreover, the company recently expanded into Saudi Arabia with a dedicated in-country operation. Gallagher also operates a treaty and facultative reinsurance business under the Gallagher Re brand.
In addition, Gallagher owns a 49% stake in ACE Gallagher. The long-established insurance company operates across Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the UAE, Oman, Kuwait, Lebanon and Greece.
Leadership sees strong regional opportunities
Simon Matson said Winwood’s regional experience and leadership credentials made him the right choice to lead Gallagher’s next phase of growth.
“With his broad understanding of risk across different sectors, extensive market knowledge and years of hands-on experience in the region, Andy will be a fantastic SEO for our Middle East business.”
Matson also highlighted Gallagher’s expansion strategy.
“Gallagher has strong growth aspirations in the Middle East as demonstrated by our recent investment in an on-the-ground team in Saudi Arabia, plus our increased investment in ACE Gallagher, and we see significant opportunity for further expansion and growth under Andy’s stewardship.”
Winwood said he plans to strengthen Gallagher’s market position while enhancing services for clients across the region.
“Taking the helm of Gallagher’s operations in the Middle East & Africa is a fantastic opportunity. In my new position I will be focused on building on our proposition and services, bringing in new talent and ensuring our clients receive the foremost level of service.”
Gallagher builds regional insurance footprint
The appointment comes as Gallagher accelerates its investment across the Middle East. The company has expanded its presence in Saudi Arabia, strengthened its partnership with ACE Gallagher and continues to invest in regional talent. As a result, the leadership transition supports Gallagher’s long-term growth ambitions across the Middle East and Africa.
