Lockton, the world’s largest privately held, independent insurance brokerage, today announced the appointment of Russell Smith as U.S. Property & Casualty (P&C) Claims Leader.
As economic and market conditions continue to evolve and create greater complexity, how organizations govern claims can have a lasting impact on outcomes, insurance costs, and business strategy
“This role reflects Lockton’s commitment to building an even stronger, more connected claims and loss control organization,” said Vince Gaffigan, Lockton’s U.S Casualty & Market Strategy Leader. “Russ brings deep analytical thinking, strong market credibility, and an appreciation for Lockton’s culture and private ownership. He understands how claims and loss control can become an even greater strategic differentiator for our clients.”
As U.S. P&C Claims Leader, Smith will further strengthen and connect Lockton’s claims and loss control capabilities across casualty, property, environmental, product recall, and related areas. He will work closely with leaders across the firm to advance claims and loss control advocacy, strengthen technical capabilities and carrier relationships, support complex claims, and expand the value Lockton delivers to clients.
“Claims advocacy is one of the most critical ways we help clients manage risk and protect their balance sheets,” said Brett Gillmon. Lockton’s U.S. Property Leader. “Russ is a highly respected industry leader with deep technical expertise, strong industry relationships, and a proven track record of building exceptional claims organizations.”
About Russell Smith
Smith joins Lockton with extensive claims leadership, technical, legal, and market experience. Most recently, he served as Senior Vice President and Head of Casualty Claims at Sompo, where he led more than 70 casualty and workers’ compensation professionals. Prior to Sompo, he spent nearly two decades in senior claims leadership roles with Chubb/ACE, including Head of Casualty Claims and Casualty Chief Technical Officer.
His experience spans workers’ compensation, complex casualty, environmental, construction, product recall, professional liability, claims operations, and large-loss management. Earlier in his career, he practiced as a defense attorney, providing a strong foundation in litigation strategy and claims resolution. Smith is based in New York and will report to Gaffigan.