New Scottish insurance broker Blackford has taken on the client book and staff of TL Dallas in Edinburgh.
Glasgow-based Blackford specialises in commercial risk and has been set up by Tom Aldridge, who launched the Glasgow office of Central Insurance before its sale to Marsh in 2014.
The new team of brokers joining the firm - Stephen Randall, Monika Hübsch, Alan Grant and Laura Scougall - will manage around 100 clients with a premium value of more than £3 million and generate new business across the UK.
Blackford was established in April, has its HQ in The Garment Factory in Glasgow and opened an additional office in Fountainbridge, Edinburgh, on Monday to house the new team. It plans to recruit 18 more people over the next three years.
The firm says it will take a "a values-led advisory approach, with a focus on personal service instead of sales".
It is backed by private investors and James Hallam, one of the UK’s leading privately owned brokers who will give Blackford a London presence.
Managing director Aldridge began his career at Aon before establishing Central’s Glasgow and Edinburgh offices.
He said: “We continue to see consolidation in the Scottish insurance broker landscape which can bring frustration for clients who are seeking a long-term broker relationship with a people-first, friendly service offering.
"A further consequence of recent acquisitions is a growing number of disengaged quality broking staff, yearning for a more traditional and dynamic place of work.
“Blackford was launched with the intention of providing a truly customer-focused broker which communicates with clients in a fresh and uncomplicated manner.
“The new team is absolutely fundamental to delivering this, and brings with it a wealth of experience, enthusiasm and importantly, a belief in our values.
"As the firm continues to grow its client base, we will continue to recruit people we intend to keep for the long-haul – those who share our values and appreciate the importance of fostering and maintaining strong relationships with clients.”
TL Dallas , which celebrates its centenary this year, retains teams at offices in Edinburgh, Falkirk and Glasgow.
