DUBLIN, 17 September 2026: Gallagher today announced Derek Henry has been appointed CEO of its broking business in Ireland. In his new role Derek will be responsible for over 600 colleagues who look after the insurance and risk management needs of its growing personal and commercial lines client base.
Derek has an extensive track record of leading and successfully growing businesses and joined Gallagher in 2021 to take the helm of its micro-SME and personal lines operations, before becoming managing director of digital distribution within its UK Retail division. Prior to joining the global broker Derek held senior commercial roles at Brightside and Towergate having started his career at RAC. Derek will report to Nick Harris, CEO of UK & Ireland Retail at Gallagher.
Gallagher launched in Ireland in 2022 and is now one of the country's largest insurance brokers. The firm first established a presence in the country through the acquisition of Innovu, and as well as growing organically, Gallagher has made a series of acquisitions, notably First Ireland in 2023 and most recently AssuredPartners last year, the latter of which saw a further 300 colleagues in Ireland join the team and a significant expansion of its customer base and products and services available to clients. The business currently operates 11 offices across Ireland reinforcing Gallagher's approach of being present in the communities where its clients are.
Commenting on the appointment, Nick Harris said: "Derek will be a fantastic leader for our Irish business and brings expertise and vision that will be critical in the next stage of growth. His experience across SME, personal lines and digital distribution means he has ideal experience for this business and the recent acquisition of AssuredPartners has provided us with a springboard for expansion and to create a best-in-class broking business offering clients an unrivalled proposition."
Derek added: "I have been working with the team in Ireland for a few months now and I am thrilled to embark on this new chapter with Gallagher. I have been really impressed by the passion and professionalism of the team in Ireland and the opportunities we have to further grow our business together. With our mix of personal and commercial clients including our specialisms in construction, HNW, equine and care means we are well positioned to support individuals and firms across Ireland."