Lockton strengthens Manchester team with senior hire

Insurance broker Lockton has appointed Bob Birtwell as client leader and senior vice president to lead a new regional real estate insurance and risk advisory offering from its Manchester office.

Bob brings extensive experience across insurance broking, business development and the real estate sector, having held senior positions at Chubb, Aspen and AXA.

He joins from Howden, where he was most recently head of wholesale business development.

Bob said: “I’m delighted to be joining Lockton at such a pivotal moment for our real estate offering in the North West.

“Having spent my career working closely with clients and developers here, I understand both the opportunities and the risk complexities they face. 

“I look forward to building on Lockton's strong reputation to establish the business as a leading voice in the market and support this region’s remarkable growth.” 

Bob’s appointment forms part of Lockton’s expansion of its insurance and risk advisory capabilities across the North West, with the new offering supporting property developers, investors and operators facing construction, operational, regulatory, environmental and liability risks.

The move comes amid continued investment in Manchester’s property market, including major regeneration and residential development alongside growth in the build-to-rent sector.

Ben Warman, global real estate practice leader at Lockton, added: “Manchester is one of the leading destinations for investment and economic growth in the UK, reflecting a broader trend of capital flowing beyond London and the South East.  
 
“Establishing a dedicated presence in the city enables us to deepen our relationships across the North West, providing clients with specialist insurance and risk advice informed by local market knowledge.” 

Ben added: “We’re delighted to welcome Bob to Lockton. 

“His appointment marks an important strategic step in leading our new regional real estate offering in Manchester and supporting the continued growth of our business across the North West. 

“The city continues to be one of the UK's most dynamic real estate markets, and Bob’s extensive experience and standing in the region make him an excellent fit for Lockton.” 

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