DWF, a provider of integrated legal and business services, has announced the appointment of David Abbott as Managing Partner of its Insurance Services division, effective May 1, 2026.
He succeeds Matthew Doughty, who has continued to lead the division on an interim basis since his appointment as Group CEO on 1 August 2025.
Paul Jenks, who has been appointed Chief Operating Officer, Insurance Services, will be supporting Abbott, who commented: “I’m delighted to take on the role of Managing Partner, Insurance Services.
“It’s a privilege to work alongside such talented colleagues across the globe, and I’m proud of the momentum we have built in recent years. I look forward to working closely with Paul and the wider team as we take the division forward.”
Abbott is a highly respected figure in the London insurance market, particularly specialising in reinsurance, political risk, political violence, trade credit, and energy classes.
His influence extends through various market bodies, including his service on the Lloyd’s Market Association (LMA) Covid response group and the LMA reinsurance claims group.
Furthermore, he currently serves as general counsel to the International Association of Claims Professionals, the organisation for heads of claims and other leading claims professionals.
Abbott’s very strong profile in these markets will help DWF as it continues to pursue ambitious growth plans, the firm highlighted. DWF has around 2,000 people in its global Insurance Services division and advises many of the world’s largest insurers.
“The division has enjoyed strong revenue growth in recent years, supported by a recruitment strategy which has included large team hires in Australia, Canada and the UK, with a particular focus on London. These hires reflect the strength of client demand, the depth of the firm’s specialist capability, and its focus on building a global insurance offering aligned to evolving client needs,” DWF stated.
Commenting on the appointment, Group CEO Matthew Doughty said: “David has demonstrated exceptional leadership, deep technical expertise and a clear vision for the continued growth of Insurance Services. I am confident that David and Paul will make a formidable senior leadership team as they guide the division into its next phase of development.”
