Leadership
Welcome to SWG Specialty
As one of Canada’s leading federally licensed Managing General Underwriters, our national expertise in niche and non-standard commercial liability, professional liability and property risks is second to none.
Meet Our Leadership
Ghazal Hamid
Ghazal Hamid, now President of SWG Specialty since its acquisition by SWG Holdings on January 1st, 2024, boasts a rich legacy in the insurance industry. With a tenure dating back to 2002 within South Western Insurance Group, Ghazal’s expertise in underwriting strategies and distribution optimization has been pivotal to profitability and growth. He pioneers product development and exclusive verticals, nurturing enduring relationships and driving profitability. Ghazal’s leadership focuses on aligning operational efficiencies with the aspirations of MGA communities, elevating business performance through market-aware strategies. His commitment to underwriting standards and risk mitigation, coupled with innovative solutions and partnerships, underscores his role in shaping SWG Specialty’s progressive objectives.
Ulli Garrett
Ulli Garrett, VP of Underwriting since April 2024, has a dynamic career spanning technical assistance to senior leadership roles. With expertise in commercial Property, Casualty, and Pollution Liability, Ulli has made significant contributions to program development and rate assessments, demonstrating innovation and effective team leadership.
Brian Mahoney
Brian Mahoney holds an Honours Bachelor of Business Administration, General Management from Brock University as well as his Chartered Insurance Professional (CIP) designation. Upon joining the A.M. Fredericks team in 2006 (now known as SWG Specialty), Brian discovered his talent for insurance, handling the underwriting of increasingly complex risks with demonstrable ability. While Brian handles a diverse range of risks, his passion is on the Liability and E&O side of the business.
Rob Russell
With four decades of industry experience, including an extensive tenure in banking and over 15 years at A.M. Fredericks Underwriting Management Ltd (now SWG Specialty), Rob Russell brings a wealth of knowledge to all IT initiatives. As the VP of Transformation, Automation, and Data Analytics at A.M. Fredericks, Rob plays a pivotal role in steering the company’s technological direction and ensuring the seamless integration of advanced IT solutions. Rob studied as an Electronic Engineering Technologist at Centennial College and specializes in process reengineering, systems, and system design.