Gallagher today announces that Karen Ellis has joined its Specialty division as Head of its Sports practice, as the global insurance broking and risk management firm further expands its sports expertise.
Karen Ellis

Karen has significant experience in insurance, spanning four decades, and in her new role, she is responsible for developing new sports business and assisting her colleagues in the sports team to support clients with their risk management and insurance needs. Karen’s appointment is the latest addition to the team following a number of appointments in 2019, including renowned broadcaster Jill Douglas, who joined in September.

Karen founded Ellis Clowes in 2010, and established it as a leading independent Lloyd’s broker specialising in high risk sports, plus companies operating in high risk territories across the globe. During her career, Karen has successfully managed some of the largest and most complex sporting claims on behalf of global clients.

Commenting on her appointment, Karen said: “Gallagher is a business I have long admired so I am delighted to join to head up its specialty sports team. With its existing talent and client focused culture, plus demonstrable commitment to sport, for example, through its Premiership Rugby title partnership, I believe there is a compelling opportunity to add further value and growth. My specialty is motorsports and I am looking forward to developing our client offering both within this area, and to wider sporting clients to meet the needs of a diverse portfolio of clients.”

John Thompson, Head of Business Development, Gallagher’s Specialty division, said: “Karen has a wealth of relevant experience including managing specialist teams and bringing together pools of talent so was the perfect choice for this role. We employ best in class brokers in all major sports and we are delighted to welcome Karen and add to our knowledge in this sector.”