Geoff Dunn

Head of Public Sector , Gallagher

With over 30 years’ experience in the insurance industry supporting complex, high risk public sector organisations, Geoff has overall leadership responsibility for Gallagher’s Public Sector practice, setting strategic direction, driving sustainable growth and ensuring the consistent delivery of high quality advice and service.

Geoff leads and coordinates multidisciplinary teams across broking, risk management, claims and advisory services, ensuring clients benefit from fully integrated support aligned to their governance, financial and operational objectives. He plays a key role in shaping Gallagher’s public sector proposition, overseeing tender strategy, market engagement and insurer relationships, and ensuring that solutions remain robust in the face of evolving regulatory, financial and societal pressures.

Known for his strategic insight and pragmatic leadership style, Geoff works closely with senior officers, elected members and stakeholders to help organisations navigate complex risk environments, protect public assets and deliver resilient services to local communities. His focus on long term partnerships and delivery excellence underpins Gallagher’s trusted position within the UK public sector.

Phil Farrar

National Development Director, Risk Management Partners

Phil began his career in 1986 with Municipal Mutual and worked at two of their branches where he stayed for 12 years, working as part of their National Public Sector Team. He joined RMP in 2004, where he was responsible for service delivery in the North of England and Scotland, as well as managing his own accounts.

Russell Heppleston

Risk Manager, National Audit Office

Russell is a Risk Manager for the Financial and Risk Management Insights team at the NAO. He joined the NAO in 2021 as a risk manager and leads on the NAO’s insight work on risk and resilience. He has nearly 20 years’ experience working in Public Sector, specialising in internal assurance, risk management and governance. He is a Chartered Internal Audit Leader (QIAL) and Certified Risk Manager (CMIRM).

Peppy Marshall

Partner, Weightmans

Penelope is a partner in the local government team in Birmingham and an expert in local authority litigation with particular emphasis on highways, education and social services and high value complex claims. Penelope has advised clients on policy matters as well as claims and has taken part in numerous training events and spoken at local and national conferences.

Noted in Chambers & Partners as an excellent lawyer in the defendant personal injury field, Penelope has been commended for her exceptional client-focused approach.

Gordon Wilmott

Head of Public Services, Zurich Municipal

Gordon is a Head of Market for Public Services at Zurich Municipal, where he leads the division in meeting the needs of its customers. Providing tailored risk management and insurance solutions to support clients in maximising their impact and delivering for their communities. Gordon has also lead the division supporting the third sector in his time with Zurich Municipal. Prior to his roles in Zurich Muncipal, Gordon's career was in marketing & communications where he held a number of senior roles.