Richard O'Brien - CEO 
Richard is CEO of Merlin, qualifying ACII in 2005. He is recognised as one of the UK's leading technical experts in commercial insurance.  
David Garrad - Head of Construction & Corporate 
David Garrad is a construction and corporate insurance specialist with over 30 years of experience as a leader in the insurance industry. 
Robert Prout - Co-Founder & Director 
Rob has worked in the insurance market for 20 years, obtaining his CII qualification in 2012. 
. 
Maia Byworth - Graduate Insurance Broker 
Maia joined the team in October 2025. Prior to Merlin, Maia completed her masters in International Development at SOAS, University of London. 
Nicola Clark - Account Handler 
Nicola is an experienced insurance account handler who joined the team in late 2025. 
George Faulkner - Founder & MD  
Founder and managing director of the Merlin business, George has worked in the insurance sector for several years.  
James Manning - Director 
James is an experienced insurance professional with over 20 years' experience, primarily in the Real Estate sector. 
. 
Sam Clark - Senior Account Handler – Real Estate 
Sam joined the team in January 2025. He studied business at King John School in Essex, before heading to the city in 2022. 
Derry Mager - Junior Insurance Broker 
Derry joined the team in March 2026, supporting our real estate and built environment clients.