Lockton hires Searil

LOCKTON Companies, the commercial insurance broker, has announced Robert Searil has joined its Edinburgh office.

Mr Searil, who joins after 20 years at Griffiths & Armour, specialists in providing advice on professional indemnity insurance and risk management matters.

Lorraine Boyle, head of Lockton's regional professions operation, said: "Robert will be a tremendous addition to the well-established and expert professions team in Edinburgh, bringing with him a wealth of experience and connections within the Construction Sector in Scotland and beyond."

Mr Searil said: "I am delighted to be joining Lockton at a time when their commitment to Scotland continues to grow. I was immediately impressed by Lorraine and her team and their passion in serving clients' needs."

Hertzell for BLM

DAVID Hertzell, the former Law Commissioner for Commercial and Common Law has joined risk and insurance law business BLM as a consultant. David's term at the Law Commission came to an end in December 2014.

Mr Hertzell, whose term at the Law Commission ended in Decembe, will work with BLM partners to inform, educate and prepare the firm's customers in advance of the implementation of the Insurance Act. The Act is expected to receive parliamentary approval in spring 2015.

Mr Hertzell is currently president of the British Insurance Law Association; chair of the CII Professional Standards Board; a member of the Airmic board. He has also sat on the audit and risk committee of the Judicial Appointments Committee.

BLM senior partner Mike Brown said: "As expected, our customers are eager to engage with David to discuss their understanding of the Insurance Bill. We are thrilled that we can add an extra string to our bow when it comes to strengthening our position at the forefront of major developments in insurance law. We are also positive that David's appointment will also assist us and our customers to lobby for future developments in other areas of the law."