An Associate of the Chartered Insurance Institute, Mike joined La Playa in 2011 to integrate superyacht and marine insurance into the firm’s Private Client offering, creating holistic insurance programmes for international Ultra High Net Worth (UHNW) individuals and families.
“Technology has changed the way that affluent clients wish to be looked after, and they now rightly expect the same level of service and finesse across their marine and jet insurance as they enjoy in their private insurance”, says Mike Taylor-West. “The very honourable but more traditional marine insurance space could draw some lessons from the private client approach to claims handling, where “frictionless” and “fast” payments, are the buzz words. In a connected world where immediate responses are the norm, our industry needs to raise its game!
"La Playa is set up to deliver global concierge-style insurance services embracing yacht, art, aviation, car and international medical insurance - precisely because our foundations are in the wraparound care of Private Client, which is a whole different discipline”.
Mike has more than 20 years’ experience in yacht and private client insurance, including both underwriting and broking. Directing the La Playa Private Client and Marine practice since 2013, he has led an increasing focus on building out a UHNW European/global infrastructure for Private Client - particularly in the family office and trusts environment. The new role recognises the importance of Private Client, Marine & Aviation in the company’s international growth plans.
CEO Mark Boon said: “I’m delighted to welcome Mike to our board as an equity-holding director. He is an indomitable force in building the business, and he will be leading the charge into continental Europe and beyond. We've created this new role to reflect our global appetite and our commitment to serving global citizens. Mike has a wealth of experience and an extensive international network, which he can bring to bear as we continue our expansion to other territories.