Aviso Specialty says new CEO Josh Roach will focus on deepening client relationships, investing in talent and strengthening insurer collaboration.

As reported in a Breaking News bulletin on Thursday, Aviso has recruited former Marsh Pacific president Mr Roach for the top job and ex-Lockton head Paul Marsden as executive director of broking. 

“I’m excited to join Aviso Specialty at a time when clients are demanding deeper insights and stronger advocacy,” Mr Roach said.  

The business has the foundations to build something unique as it serves clients in an increasingly complex risk environment, he adds. 

Mr Roach takes over from Travis Kemp, who becomes executive chairman. 

Aviso Specialty recently announced the recruitment of 20 new staff, including many from Lockton. 

“We see significant opportunity to elevate specialist broking through a model that stands apart from the more prevalent standardised approaches seen across the broader industry,” Mr Kemp said. 

“To realise this vision, we continue to bring together industry leaders with the experience and capability to make a meaningful and lasting impact.” 

Marsh announced the departure of Mr Roach in September, with Damian Schinck taking over as Pacific president. 

Mr Marsden moved into a consulting role in March last year, with Marcus Pearson taking over as CEO of Lockton Pacific. 

Aviso Specialty is part of Envest – a subsidiary of UK-based Ardonagh – and is also backed by employee ownership.

It has more than 150 specialists across Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Canberra, Darwin and Perth. 

The appointments of Mr Roach and Mr Marsden, who joined with equity alignment, took effect last week.