Sun City Center, Florida, United States
Having hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2014, I have spent the past year or so recording my adventure. I have enjoyed the process of not only writing but also developing the skills necessary to build an audience for my work.
In late December, my wife and I sold our P&C business to a local agency. Our agency will be developing a book of life and health business, as well as consulting services. However, the development of this business is taking something of a back seat, as I have decided to take 2014 as a year in which I will attempt a long ambition. I will be thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail, all 2185 miles of it, and will welcome followers at my blog, which is at www.myappalachiantrial.com. When I return to real life in September, I will take stock and consider how best to further develop the agency.
Formed an independent agency with my wife to take advantage of what we perceive to be an under-served market place. Gained my General Lines Agent’s license (2-20) by passing the Florida State Exam following an intensive five week course. Also gained the Life license (2-15) a few weeks later. Consulting with London and New York lawyers as an expert witness in complex reinsurance arbitrations and UK High Court cases. Member of the panel of arbitrators at ARIAS (UK)
Increased marine and energy brokerage revenue by 59.6%. Led a middle market energy wholesaler into an MGA with a large US carrier. Assisted a large Private Equity Fund to enter the offshore reinsurance market via a sidecar arrangement with a large Bermudan reinsurer. Led the same company towards forming a new London Energy Insurer with $500m of capital.
Performed peer review work for a large Lloyd’s Syndicate. Various Expert Witness appointments. Arbitration appointments.