Ireland | 13 May 2025
Marsh, the world’s leading insurance broker and risk advisor, and a business of Marsh McLennan, has today announced the appointment of John Small as Head of Private Equity, M&A and Transactional Risk, Ireland. Based in Dublin, Mr. Small will report to Derek O’Neill, Head of Specialty for Marsh in Ireland.
Mr. Small will primarily be focused on Irish transactions and will also collaborate closely with the wider Marsh Europe and Global Private Equity Mergers and Acquisitions (PEMA) team, enhancing Marsh’s ability to deliver integrated solutions to corporate and private equity clients in Ireland, Europe and across the world. He will lead, develop and grow this specialist practice area, adding greatly to the existing expertise within Marsh Ireland’s Speciality business, which includes Financial and Professional and Lines, Cyber Risk, Surety, Trade Credit, Energy and Renewables and now Mergers and Acquisitions.
Admitted as a solicitor in Ireland, and England & Wales, Mr. Small has strong experience in cross-border legal matters and deal facilitation. He advises on M&A transactions, including structuring, negotiating, and placing complex risk solutions. He joins Marsh from Willis Towers Watson having worked for several years in the company’s Transactional Risks practice in London. He previously worked as a corporate (re)insurance lawyer in London and Bermuda.
Derek A. O’Neill, Head of Specialty for Marsh Ireland, said: “As private equity and M&A transactions in Ireland grow in volume and complexity, our clients seek deep expertise and strong relationships with local markets and key stakeholders. John's extensive experience highlights our commitment to investing in experts who enhance our service to clients in Ireland. He will be vital in expanding our capabilities in this important business risk area.”
John Small, Head of Private Equity, M&A and Transactional Risk in Ireland, said: “Marsh is renowned for both its deep expertise and its executional excellence, and I am delighted to be joining the team here in Ireland with its unrivalled reputation for client service. The Irish dealmaking ecosystem continues to evolve at pace and against this background I look forward to delivering strategic solutions to the complex transactional risks faced by our clients. This is an exciting opportunity to forge enduring new partnerships and to enhance value across the Irish M&A and private equity landscape.”
