West of England P&I Cub has annouced the retirement of Richard Macnamara after 43 years of loyal service.

Richard has made an outstanding contribution to the Club and the marine insurance industry over a long and illustrious career, particularly in Asia where he has been instrumental in driving the growth of West’s business in the region and developing the Club’s Hong Kong office into a major regional hub.

Having obtained a history degree from Cambridge University, Richard completed post graduate legal studies. He qualified as a Barrister before joining West in 1982. After working in the London office as a Claims Executive, he managed the Club’s Hong Kong office from 1988 to 1991 before returning to London and joining the Underwriting Department. He was appointed to the Management Board in 1993 as an Underwriting Director and returned to Hong Kong in 1996 when the Club’s underwriting responsibility for Asia was transferred from London to Hong Kong.

West was one of the first International Group Clubs with an office in Hong Kong and it remains the largest in the territory. It provides a full service capability, delivering underwriting, claims and loss prevention services to many Asian Members, particularly in China and Vietnam. The Asia region now collectively represents around 40% of the Club’s gross premium income, which in itself is testament to Richard’s outstanding leadership and dedication over many years.

To ensure a smooth transition, he has spent the last year as a Senior Advisor, supporting the new CEO of the Hong Kong office, Cai Xuanlun (“XL”).

Tom Bowsher, Group CEO, West P&I commented: “Richard has been a pivotal figure in shaping West’s success over more than four decades. His character, expertise and leadership have been instrumental in establishing and expanding the service we offer our Members. Richard has left a profound and lasting legacy, and on behalf of the entire Club, I want to thank him for his exceptional contribution and wish him all the very best for the future.”

Tony Paulson, Head of Asia, West P&I said: “Richard’s impact on West’s growth in Asia cannot be overstated. His deep industry knowledge, strong service ethic and a commitment to building strong relationships with Members and colleagues alike has made it an absolute privilege to work alongside him. Richard has laid the strongest of foundations for the Club in Asia and we look forward to XL and the team continuing to build on this legacy in this vitally important region for West.”