AI12 Limited, a specialist insurance and reinsurance broker headquartered in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), has appointed Edward Sheppard as Chief Broking Officer, marking a significant step in the firm’s strategy to expand its specialty business and reinforce global capabilities.

The appointment follows AI12’s DIFC and DFSA authorization and will see Sheppard lead the development of AI12’s Construction, Power & Infrastructure (CP&I) portfolio and wider P&C reinsurance offerings. He will work closely with Founder and CEO Anvar Mullabekov and Chief Operating Officer Richard Prenter to accelerate the firm’s global Specialty growth strategy.

“Edward’s appointment comes at an important inflection point for AI12,” said Mullabekov. “As we evolve from a recognized aviation leader into a boutique specialty broker with a diversified global offering, his technical expertise and market credibility will be instrumental. Edward strengthens our drive and mission to scale our specialty business while maintaining our client-first DNA and delivering long-term value for clients and shareholders.”

Sheppard brings over 16 years of experience at Marsh McLennan, where he held leadership roles in client servicing, broking, placement, and power and renewables across the Middle East and Africa. He has extensive experience designing and placing large, complex international portfolios across construction, power, renewable power, petrochemicals, and other industrial sectors.

Edward Sheppard, Chief Broking Officer, said: “The strength of a broker is defined by long standing relationships, deep subject matter expertise and innovative solutions. Our ambition is to build the world’s best boutique insurance broker, precise in our messaging, disciplined in our focus and anchored in a client-first approach. AI12 offers what many large organizations struggle to deliver: direct proximity to decision-makers and tailored solutions delivered with speed and clarity. My priority is to build a strong specialty brand, expand CP&I capabilities and bring clients closer to the people structuring and placing their risk.”

Richard Prenter, Chief Operating Officer, added: “Edward’s leadership experience and ability to manage complex portfolios align directly with AI12’s next phase of growth.”