DUAL adds Forestry with the arrival of Gordon Steward

DUAL, the underwriting arm of Howden Group Holdings, and the world’s largest international underwriting agency, today announced the appointment of Gordon Steward as Managing Director, Forestry, bringing a global Forestry offering to DUAL’s already extensive product range. Steward joined DUAL 1 June and reports to Richard Clapham, CEO, DUAL Group.

Richard Clapham said: “We are delighted to welcome Gordon Steward to DUAL. Forestry is a niche but increasingly important product that seeks to de-risk forest assets for investors and plantation owners. Gordon is a well-known market leader in Forestry insurance and has unparalleled experience in this sector, making this a great fit for DUAL with our focus on underwriting expertise.”

Gordon Steward commented: “I couldn’t be more pleased to join DUAL. Its entrepreneurial culture and extensive distribution make this a perfect match for me as I plan to extend into more innovative Forestry products. DUAL’s extensive global network with local expertise on the ground means I am extremely confident we will continue to grow the portfolio profitably while ensuring we support our existing partners and clients with a high level of engagement and service. ”

Steward will focus primarily on small, medium to medium-large forestry companies in the southern hemisphere markets of South Africa, Australia, Chile, Uruguay, South East Asia and New Zealand. Clients include timber / paper / pulp producers, pension funds, exotic wood investment and real estate investment funds. Typical perils are FLEXA, Wind (Non-accumulating Zones) and sub limited perils, typically: frost, hail; snow damage; debris removal; and firefighting costs.

Steward joins from White Oak Underwriting Agency where he managed the Forestry business. His extensive 35 year career in Lloyd’s, UK Retail and International Markets, includes roles at Weald Risk Partners, Castel, IGI, Catlin Syndicate 2003, Forest Re, Allianz Global and QBE.