Leonardo Garzon Appointed McLarens Managing Director For Latin America

Colombia native Leonardo Garzon (above) has been appointed as the new Latin America managing director for global insurance provider McLarens, and from his Miami base, will oversee a network of 16 offices and affiliates operating across North, Central and South America. He succeeds Howard Laidlaw, who after 14 successful years with McLarens is retiring from the industry.

Garzon is a recognized leader within the region, holding 25 years of experience in forensic engineering, construction vulnerabilities, and pre-loss and post-loss consulting. His experience in the provision of risk and loss adjusting services includes advising on high value disputes within the energy, oil, transportation, commercial and residential property sectors.

“I am excited to welcome Leo Garzon as our new Managing Director in Latin America. His substantial industry experience, technical expertise and leadership credentials means he is well placed to lead McLarens Latam into the future. I have tremendous confidence in Leo’s ability to foster innovation, quality, and the development of our team across the region,” said Gary Brown, Chief Executive Officer of McLarens in a statement.

“On behalf of McLarens, I’d also like to thank Howard for his invaluable leadership in Latin America and his commitment to McLarens’ core values of technical excellence, client focus and respect for his LATAM team. He has helped position the business for sustainable future growth in the region and his ability to attract and retain the best talent will stand as an enduring testament to his concern and care for McLarens’ continued success,” Brown added.

Garzon joins McLarens from J.S. Held, and previously served in executive roles with Desimone Consulting Engineers, LIU, and Thornton Tomasetti. He holds a B.S. in Civil Engineering from National University of Colombia and M.S. in Civil Engineering and Engineering Mechanics from Columbia University, NY.

“I am honored to join McLarens as the Managing Director for Latin America and I am proud to join a team of professionals with deep technical expertise, complex claims experience, and extensive knowledge of their local markets. I look forward to further strengthening our Latin America team and expanding our service capabilities to deliver the best experience possible to our clients in the region and beyond,” said Garzon.