#USA #New York #Crisis Management #United Risk #DUAL North America

United Risk Expands Its Reach in Crisis Management

In a major strategic move, United Risk has announced the signing of an agreement to acquire DUAL North America's Crisis Management program along with its underwriting team. This significant acquisition is poised to reshape United Risk's operational capabilities and service offerings in the insurance market, particularly concerning risk management in product recalls and contamination.

Key Details of the Acquisition

The acquisition, set to be completed early in 2026, will see DUAL's Crisis Management program rebranded as First Product Protection. Following the rebranding, this division will operate independently within the United Risk umbrella, thus continuing a rich legacy of crisis management expertise. Target industries that this new offering will cater to include food and beverage, transportation sectors (comprising aviation, aerospace, rail, and automotive), consumer electronics, and more.

According to Hayden Smith, the CEO of United Risk, this acquisition aligns with the company's vision of becoming a leading, diversified, specialist-led Managing General Agent (MGA). By incorporating DUAL's expertise, United Risk aims to strengthen its service offerings and enhance its market presence substantially.

New Leadership Roles

The program's founders, Mark LeBlanc and Robley Moor, are set to take on prominent leadership roles within First Product Protection. Mark LeBlanc, with an illustrious background in product contamination and crisis management, will lead operations from United Risk's headquarters at Rockefeller Plaza, New York. Having served previously as Managing Principal at DUAL and held senior positions in globally recognized companies, LeBlanc brings over 25 years of invaluable experience to his new role.

Robley Moor, based in London, will also integrate his vast insurance leadership experience into First Product Protection, having founded DUAL's Crisis Management program in North America. Together, they are expected to lead the initiative to ensure uninterrupted operations during the transition, benefiting both brokers and insured clients.

Strategic Importance of the Deal

This acquisition holds substantial value for United Risk, not only enhancing its service repertoire but also reinforcing its ties with Lloyd's of London, a bastion for specialist insurance underwriting. Jamie Sahara, Chairman of United Risk, affirmed that the addition of First Product Protection brings immediate value to the organization by complementing its existing strengths in program management, lines of business, and partnerships with reinsurers and brokers.

John Johnson, CEO of DUAL North America, similarly endorsed the transaction, highlighting it as a strategic move that enables DUAL to concentrate on its core growth areas. Johnson expressed confidence in United Risk as a partner capable of nurturing the continuity and evolution of DUAL's Crisis Management program.

Looking Ahead

The ambition of United Risk to broaden its portfolio is clear with this acquisition as it seeks to address ever-evolving market demands and diversify its offer to clients. The establishment of First Product Protection will not only bolster existing services but will also set new standards in crisis management capabilities across various industry sectors.

As United Risk gears up for this transition, the industry watches closely, anticipating a strong enhancement in how crisis management services are delivered and supported. With both teams poised for success, this transaction is not merely an acquisition but a leap towards becoming a premier force in the global risk management arena.

For more information about United Risk and this transformative move, visit United Risk Global.