ABP counsel flies the nest to airline insurer

Associated British Ports (ABP) general counsel Stephen Walsh has quit the listed company to return to the airline sector.

Walsh, who joined ABP from British Airways, is leaving to join Global Aerospace Underwriting Managers as global general counsel. He is replacing incumbent Ken Walder, who is likely to retire from the world's largest airline insurer next month.

During his three years at ABP, Walsh has rationalised the number of law firms the company outsources work to. Following his grass-roots review, ABP now refers the lion's share of its work to three regional firms: Andrew M Jackson & Co, Bond Pearce and Morgan Cole. In London the company has relationships with CMS Cameron Mc-Kenna, Norton Rose, Simm-ons & Simmons, Slaughter and May and Taylor Wessing.

In his new role, Walsh will lead a team comprising both lawyers and claims managers.

Commenting on Walsh's shock resignation, an ABP spokesperson said: "It's unfortunate that Stephen has decided to leave ABP. But opportunities for talented individuals beckon and he has to move on. We wish him every success in the future and thank him for his contribution."

ABP, which owns and manages a number of ports in the UK, is advertising for a lawyer to succeed Walsh.