Integrated legal and commercial services provider DWF has announced the appointment of David Abbott as Managing Partner of its Insurance Services division, effective 1 May 2026.
He succeeds Matthew Doughty, who has continued to lead the division on an interim basis since his appointment as Group CEO on 1 August 2025.
Paul Jenks, who has been appointed Chief Operating Officer of Insurance Services, will support Abbott, commenting: “I am delighted to be taking on the role of Managing Partner of Insurance Services.
“It is a privilege to work with such talented colleagues across the globe and I am proud of the momentum we have built in recent years. I look forward to working closely with Paul and the wider team to drive the department forward.”
Abbott is a highly respected figure in the London insurance market, with particular expertise in the reinsurance, political risk, political violence, trade credit and energy categories.
His influence spans across market bodies, including his service on the Lloyd’s Market Association (LMA) Covid Response Group and the LMA Reinsurance Claims Group.
Additionally, he currently serves as general counsel for the International Association of Claims Professionals, an organization for claims executives and other leading claims professionals.
The company stressed that Abbott’s strong presence in these markets will help DWF continue to pursue ambitious growth plans. DWF’s Global Insurance Services division has approximately 2,000 employees and provides consulting services to many of the world’s largest insurance companies.
DWF said: “The division has delivered strong revenue growth in recent years, supported by a recruitment strategy that has included the hiring of large teams in Australia, Canada and the UK, particularly in London. These hires reflect the intensity of client demand, the depth of the firm’s specialist capabilities and the firm’s focus on building global insurance products that meet changing client needs.”
Commenting on the appointment, group chief executive Matthew Doughty said: “David has demonstrated excellent leadership skills, deep technical expertise and a clear vision for continued growth in insurance services. I am confident that David and Paul will form a strong senior leadership team to lead the division into its next phase of growth.”
