Marsh has announced the appointment of Fred Smith as its new Florida risk management leader, marking a significant leadership change for the company’s operations in the state. The move comes as Marsh responds to recent shifts in its Florida leadership team and aims to strengthen its presence in the region, especially given the ongoing Florida property insurance rate hikes impacting many businesses and homeowners.
Marsh Appoints Fred Smith as Florida Risk Management Leader
The global insurance broker Marsh stated on September 29, 2025, that Fred Smith will assume the newly created position of Florida corporate and risk management segment leader. This appointment will take effect on October 1, 2025, according to Marsh’s official announcement.
Smith joined Marsh in 2020 and previously served as the corporate segment leader for the Greater Mid-Atlantic region. He will relocate from New York to Miami to take on his new responsibilities. Marsh confirmed that Smith will report directly to Megan McClellan, Southeast zone leader at Marsh.
Leadership Changes at Marsh in Florida
The creation of the Florida risk management leader role follows several departures from Marsh’s Florida leadership team. According to Marsh, multiple executives have recently left the company to join rival firm Howden. The company has responded by establishing this new position to provide focused leadership for its Florida corporate and risk management segment, especially in light of recent insurance companies being fined for mishandling hurricane claims in the state.
Marsh officials said the move is intended to support clients throughout Florida and maintain the company’s service standards during a period of transition.
Fred Smith’s Background and Experience
Fred Smith brings experience in risk management and corporate insurance solutions to his new role. Before joining Marsh in 2020, Smith held various leadership positions in the insurance industry. As the former corporate segment leader for the Greater Mid-Atlantic region, he worked with clients across several states, providing risk management strategies and insurance services.
In his new position, Smith will oversee Marsh’s risk management operations for corporate clients in Florida property insurance. He will also work to strengthen relationships with clients and guide the team through ongoing changes in the insurance market, including those related to Florida insurance reform and its link to increased hurricane claim denials.
Marsh’s Focus on Florida Risk Management
Marsh is recognized as a leading provider of risk management and insurance broking services. The company serves clients in various sectors, including corporate, public, and private organizations. With Smith’s appointment, Marsh aims to reinforce its commitment to the Florida market.
According to Marsh, the Florida risk management leader will play a key role in addressing the evolving needs of businesses in the state. The company is focused on supporting clients with risk transfer, insurance placement, and risk financing solutions tailored to Florida’s regulatory and market conditions.
Industry Response and Market Impact
The appointment comes at a time of increased competition among major insurance brokers in Florida. Several leadership changes have occurred across the industry, with companies like Howden expanding their teams in the region.
Marsh officials stated that Smith’s leadership will help the company adapt to these changes and maintain its position as a trusted advisor for risk management in Florida.
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Risk Management Leader
What is a Florida risk management leader at Marsh?
A Florida risk management leader at Marsh is responsible for overseeing risk management services and corporate insurance solutions for clients throughout Florida. This role focuses on supporting businesses with risk assessment, insurance placement, and related services.
How much experience does Fred Smith have in risk management?
Fred Smith joined Marsh in 2020 and previously held leadership roles in the insurance industry. He has several years of experience managing risk solutions for corporate clients in different regions.
Are there other recent leadership changes at Marsh in Florida?
Yes, Marsh has experienced several departures from its Florida leadership team, with some executives joining rival firms. The company created the Florida risk management leader position to address these changes.
Can you contact Marsh’s Florida risk management leader for corporate insurance needs?
Businesses in Florida can reach out to Marsh’s Florida risk management leader or the company’s Miami office for information about risk management and insurance services. Marsh provides support to corporate clients throughout the state.
Where are Marsh’s Florida operations based?
Marsh’s Florida operations are based in Miami, where the new risk management leader, Fred Smith, will be located. The company serves clients across the state from this office.
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