MNK Re appoints Lesley Kruger to drive business growth in Africa

Lesley Kruger, Director of Business Development at MNK Re

MNK Re Limited, the leading independent broker of worldwide specialist risks into Lloyd’s, is pleased to announce the appointment of Lesley Kruger as its new Director of Business Development.

Kruger brings to MNK Re a 26-year track record of success within African markets, having recently been Chief Operating Officer of a South African-based risk management company.

She will lead on developing opportunities for MNK Re in South Africa, one of the world’s fastest growing insurance markets. Building on MNK Re’s partnership approach, she will work with local brokers to offer clients specialised premium covers through the broker’s strong relationships with both Lloyds and other top-rated international insurers and reinsurers.

Lesley will have a particular focus on MNK Re’s range of solutions in classes of businesses which are experiencing rapid growth, such as cyber, energy, marine, aviation and agriculture.

Kruger’s appointment sees the further expansion of MNK Re’s presence on the continent, having launched MNK Re South Africa at the end of 2020, and with plans to extend into other African territories imminent. She will provide an important link between the company’s African offices and headquarters in London.

Manoj Kumar, Group CEO and Managing Director of MNK Re Limited, said: “At MNK Re, we are expanding into new markets and pioneering lines of business. Lesley brings with her a strong vision for how MNK Re can continue its growth, especially in emerging markets.

“Africa’s insurance market is growing rapidly despite the impact of the pandemic. Lesley’s experience, combined with her unique understanding of the market and contacts, will help us to ensure that we continue to deliver innovative products to our clients.”

On joining MNK Re Group, Lesley Kruger said: “I chose to join MNK Re because it’s such a dynamic company, with an extensive international network. Our strength is that we can bring A-rated insurers into the boardrooms of small, independent intermediaries, which can seriously enhance their offer to their clients.

“There are major opportunities now, as African economies embrace digitisation. As a specialist global reinsurance broker, MNK Re can offer support to both small and medium sized insurers and brokers, giving them full access to global markets.”