McLarens names new EMEA executive director

McLarens has appointed Louise Butcher as its new Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) executive director.

Butcher will join the EMEA senior management board and assume executive responsibility for selected strategic initiatives and growth programmes.

She will also continue to serve as head of forensic accounting in EMEA, a role she has held since 2025.

Meanwhile, McLarens has also promoted Mark Farrant as the new head of UK commercial property and Chris Pettet to the position of UK head of niche lines.

Both roles will form part of the UK operations board and play a key role in supporting the next phase of operational and market development.

Commenting on the series of appointments, Steven Wallace, managing director of EMEA, said: “The EMEA business continues to demonstrate strong, disciplined growth underpinned by technical excellence and collaborative leadership.

”The appointments we are announcing today reflect both the strength and diversity of our internal talent, alongside our commitment to aligning leadership with the opportunities we see across the region.”

Retirement 

The moves come with David Gillan, executive director, retiring from his role at the end of April 2026

After nearly two decades of service, Gillan intends to take a short break before returning to McLarens in a consultancy capacity. 

Gillan joined McLarens as a UK executive in 2008, where he took responsibility for the north region and helped to build out the UK operation. 

Wallace added: “Our strategic focus remains clear – to broaden our specialist offerings, strengthen our practitioner-led leadership model and invest in the talent and infrastructure required to sustain long-term growth.

“These developments ensure we are well-positioned to support our clients and capitalise on the significant opportunities ahead.”