Liberty adds environmental liability underwriter

Liberty International Underwriters in Europe has appointed Gordon Smith as environmental impairment liability (EIL) underwriter in its Madrid office.

LIU Europe said it is keen to grow its environmental team in Spain and Portugal.

Smith will report to Duncan Spencer, vice-president EIL, and also to LIU Europe’s Madrid office head, Fernando Lara.

Smith was previously an independent environmental consultant, specialising in environmental due diligence, risk assessment and industrial compliance auditing.

At LIU Europe, he will be responsible for growing the EIL book in Spain and Portugal as well as supporting the wider development of European EIL business.

Spencer said: “Having launched our environmental liability unit in 2009 we have seen requests for EIL cover steadily increase in the UK and in Europe as the EU environmental liability directive, which requires companies to make financial provision for damage they may cause to the environment, continues to drive demand.

“With Spain having implemented the Directive in 2010, the market in southern Europe has huge growth potential and Gordon’s appointment will be a valuable addition to our EIL team.”