O’Neill’s industry experience spans marine  transportation, , marine facilities and equipment, ports and drydocks, cruise lines and international marine operations. For over 30 years  he’s delivered marine surveying, technical risk assessment and loss support across complex maritime environments. 

A highly regarded marine expert, he offers deep technical and operational expertise across marine surveys, including protection and indemnity (P&I), hull and machinery, vessel discharge, and damage and repair, as well as shipyard risk assessments, statutory regulations and classifications, project and safety management, marine adjusting, project cargo, marine salvage and subrogation.

“With Will joining our team, Sedgwick Canada now has the largest and most technically diverse marine expert group in the market,” said Kumar Siva, Chief Operating Officer, Sedgwick in Canada. “His reputation and hands-on experience further strengthen our ability to support clients facing complex marine losses, risk exposures and operational challenges across Canada.”

Sedgwick’s marine practice in Canada will continue to support a wide range of claims, risk assessments and technical services across ports, terminals, vessels, cargo operations and international marine exposures, backed by global specialty expertise.

“Sedgwick’s marine practice brings together technical depth, operational experience and global reach,” said O’Neill. “I look forward to working with the team to deliver practical, engineering-led solutions for clients managing complex marine risks and claims.”

O’Neill holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Mechanical Engineering from Salford University in England and is a Chartered Engineer (CEng) and member of the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (MIMarEST).

About Sedgwick

Sedgwick is the world’s leading risk and claims administration partner, helping clients thrive by navigating the unexpected. The company’s expertise, combined with the most advanced AI-enabled technology available, sets the standard for solutions in claims administration, loss adjusting, benefits administration and product recall. With over 33,000 colleagues and 10,000 clients across 80 countries, Sedgwick provides unmatched perspective, caring that counts, and solutions for the rapidly changing and complex risk landscape. Sedgwick’s majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Altas Partners, CDPQ, Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.

SYDNEY, Australia – The number of Australian product safety market actions, including recalls, fell 3.2% from 2024 to 2025, according to Sedgwick’s 2026 State of the Nation Australian Product Safety and Recall Index report. In total, there were 1,247 events in 2025 compared to 1,288 in 2024. While the annual figures are lower, the second half (H2) of 2025 recorded an uptick in the number of events, suggesting an increased regulatory focus on product safety and enforcement.

Sedgwick’s biannual Australian report analyses product safety and recall data from the Australian automotive, consumer product, and food and drink sectors, as well as market actions, including product recalls, corrections, and alerts, for the pharmaceutical and medical device industries. This latest edition examines data from the second half of 2025, July through August, as well as the full year in review.

Compared to January through June 2025 (H1 2025), the total number of recall actions rose by 10.3% from 593 to 654 in H2. All five sectors that Sedgwick tracks experienced more events in H2 2025 than in H1. The greatest gains were in the pharmaceutical industry, where market actions rose 70% to a six-year high. The food and drink sector saw recalls increase 36.4%, marking the second-highest half-year total since H2 2020.

In addition to the recall data and analysis, Sedgwick’s report provides essential insights into the regulatory developments and perspectives on what product safety stakeholders should anticipate for 2026. Throughout 2025, Australian regulators updated or implemented rules and guidance across a range of industries to harmonise them with those of other nations. This included stronger cyber security rules for smart devices and toys, extended producer responsibilities for batteries and other consumer goods, and requirements for emissions standards and Autonomous Emergency Braking in vehicles. 

One of the biggest product safety changes in 2025 was the Therapeutic Goods Administration’s (TGA) new Procedure for Recalls, Product Alerts, and Product Corrections (PRAC). The new regulation outlines rules for sponsors of medical devices, medicines, bloods, and biologicals when conducting market actions, including product recalls. Regulators also prioritised transparency by enacting several rules that addressed consumers’ access to information about product safety, ingredients, and honest advertising.

“While overall recall activity eased in 2025, Australian regulators remain sharply focused on product safety and enforcement,” notes Mark Buckingham, Global Director of Recall Solutions with Sedgwick. “Businesses must remain agile as regulatory reforms demand greater transparency, stricter safety standards, and increased obligations for manufacturers and distributors. In this dynamic landscape, clear communications with regulators and supply chain partners, along with robust recall strategies, is essential to respond swiftly to emerging market crises.”

To download the latest Australian Product Safety and Recall Index, click here.

Sedgwick publishes its Australian Product Safety and Recall Index twice a year. It is the only report that aggregates and tracks recall data and regulatory changes across multiple government agencies and industries to help stakeholders respond to product recall trends, dynamic legislation, and other in-market challenges. For more information, visit www.sedgwick.com/product-recall.

About Sedgwick

Sedgwick is the world’s leading risk and claims administration partner, helping clients thrive by navigating the unexpected. The company’s expertise, combined with the most advanced AI-enabled technology available, sets the standard for solutions in claims administration, loss adjusting, benefits administration and product recall. With over 33,000 colleagues and 10,000 clients across 80 countries, Sedgwick provides unmatched perspective, caring that counts, and solutions for the rapidly changing and complex risk landscape. Sedgwick’s majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Altas Partners, CDPQ, Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.com.

She will lead strategy and delivery for Sedgwick’s forensic accounting services across the country, and work closely with clients, insurers and legal stakeholders to support complex loss, litigation and class action matters.

Hillier brings over 20 years of forensic accounting experience from across Australia and the UK. She specializes in class action administration, settlement schemes, and has extensive experience quantifying economic losses for insurance and litigation matters. These include business interruption, commercial disputes, cyber, personal injury and fatal accident claims. 

“Amanda is a highly respected leader with deep technical expertise and a strong track record of innovation,” said Kimberley Daley, Executive General Manager of Sedgwick in Australia. “Her ability to combine forensic rigor with technology-enabled solutions has helped expand our capacity and deliver better outcomes for clients. Amanda’s leadership will be instrumental as demand for complex and large-scale claims support continues to grow.”

Since joining Sedgwick in 2011, Hillier has played a central role in strengthening the firm’s forensic accounting capabilities across Australia. She has overseen operational quality across the practice, supported catastrophe response efforts and helped implement enhanced claims systems and automated assessment solutions to efficiently manage high-volume and complex claims, including class action matters.

“Forensic accounting continues to evolve as claims become more complex and data-driven,” said Hillier. “I’m proud to work with a highly skilled team that brings deep technical expertise together with automation and innovation to help clients navigate challenging loss, litigation and class action matters.”

“Sedgwick’s forensic accounting team in Australia comprises more than 30 accountants across four offices nationwide, serving clients across all sectors including construction, hospitality & leisure, manufacturing, power & energy and retail.”

About Sedgwick

Sedgwick is the world’s leading risk and claims administration partner, helping clients thrive by navigating the unexpected. The company’s expertise, combined with the most advanced AI-enabled technology available, sets the standard for solutions in claims administration, loss adjusting, benefits administration and product recall. With over 33,000 colleagues and 10,000 clients across 80 countries, Sedgwick provides unmatched perspective, caring that counts, and solutions for the rapidly changing and complex risk landscape. Sedgwick’s majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Altas Partners, CDPQ, Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Sedgwick, the world’s leading risk and claims administration partner, has launched its first Pathfinder Protégé Program in Asia, a region-wide professional development initiative designed to identify, develop, and empower high-potential adjusters across the region to become future specialists in Major & Complex Loss (MCL). This internal development program makes it one of the most comprehensive MCL development pathways in the industry.

“Our investment in people remains our greatest strategic priority. The Pathfinder Protégé Program reinforces our commitment to developing high quality talent and future leaders,” said Stephen Kerr, Sedgwick Chief Executive Officer, Asia. “Protégé is a proven program that has been running very successfully in our UK business, and it is very exciting to launch it in our region, delivering career development for our colleagues, and a future proof MCL service for our valued clients.”

The inaugural Pathfinder Protégé Program launch was held at Sedgwick Kuala Lumpur attended by 10 mentors, 11 protégés and regional leadership, marking a significant milestone in Sedgwick’s commitment capability building, technical excellence, and succession development for the Asia region.

The three‑year program delivers one of the most comprehensive MCL development pathways in the industry. It includes:

• Structured quarterly capability assessments review following the SMART goals development
• Quarterly mentor protégé engagements
• Continuous skill-building with monthly webinars of MCL technical and soft‑skills training
• On-site technical learning with mentors
• Enrollment in professional studies including a Diploma in Loss Adjusting through the Australian and New Zealand Institute of Insurance and Finance (ANZIIF)

“The complexity of today’s claims landscape demands adjusters who possess a strong technical skills set, strategic thinking capabilities, excellent judgement, and resilience. The Pathfinder Protégé Program is designed exactly for this by accelerating the professional development of our future MCL specialists throughout Asia,” said Nigel Cook, Sedgwick Head of MCL Asia and Executive Lead, Protégé Program. “Protégé provides the candidates with a tailor-made structured learning environment specifically designed to enhance the skillset and capability of each adjuster and real-time exposure to the handling of large complex losses under the mentorship and guidance of our designated Senior MCL adjusters across Asia. I am extremely proud to be part of the development program for our next generation of MCL adjusters.” 

“Talent development has always been at the heart of our regional strategy,” said Lynn Pua, Mentor and Colleague Resource Director, Asia. “The Pathfinder Protégé Program not only builds capability but also strengthens collaboration across markets. By empowering colleagues with the right tools, guidance, and environment to grow, we are building a strong and sustainable talent pipeline for the years ahead.”

“It is an honour to represent Indonesia in such a meaningful regional initiative,” said, Raymond Gerung, Senior Adjuster, Property and Engineering, Sedgwick in Indonesia. “The program challenges us to think beyond day‑to‑day work and to enhance our capabilities in handling technical, high‑value, and complex losses. I am grateful to be part of a cohort dedicated to growth, learning, and regional collaboration. To my mentor Andri Dirgantara, President Director President, Sedgwick in Indonesia, thank you for your passion and time in nurturing me to be a next level of adjuster.”

Oliver See, Manager, Sedgwick in Singapore added, “the structured framework of this program blends training, mentoring, and hands‑on exposure to create a powerful platform for accelerated development. I am inspired by Sedgwick’s commitment to nurturing talent and excited to bring enhanced expertise back to better serve our clients globally. I am thrilled to become to be part of the first cohort of this professional development program!”

Sedgwick operates in nine countries in Asia, supported by more than 750 colleagues, and manages more than 42,000 claims annually with expertise spanning domestic, commercial, and major complex loss categories.

About Sedgwick

Sedgwick is the world’s leading risk and claims administration partner, helping clients thrive by navigating the unexpected. The company’s expertise, combined with the most advanced AI-enabled technology available, sets the standard for solutions in claims administration, loss adjusting, benefits administration and product recall. With over 33,000 colleagues and 10,000 clients across 80 countries, Sedgwick provides unmatched perspective, caring that counts, and solutions for the rapidly changing and complex risk landscape. Sedgwick’s majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Altas Partners, CDPQ, Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.com.

MADRID, Spain – Sedgwick, the world’s leading risk and claims administration partner, announced that Rafael Cebrián, José Miguel Herrero and Carlos Moreno, three highly regarded adjusters in the Spanish market have joined its construction and industry department, led by Francisco Peydró. The addition of these experts further reinforces Sedgwick Iberia’s strategic commitment to specialized talent and technical excellence in the management of highly complex claims.

“We continue to advance our growth strategy by further strengthening a team that is already a benchmark in the Iberian market,” said Ana Franco de Sarabia, Managing Director of Sedgwick Iberia. “The experience and specialization that Carlos, José Miguel and Rafael reflect our continued commitment to talent and technical excellence, the fundamental pillars of our expansion plan.”

Rafael Cebrián brings an extensive national and international career in the appraisal and adjustment of complex claims. His experience includes territorial management responsibilities and leadership of a training division, providing deep technical and operational expertise in the resolution of large losses. He holds a degree in building engineering and a postgraduate degree in materials, water and terrain engineering. In addition, he has served as a university professor, authored technical publications, and is a frequent speaker at industry congresses and conferences.

José Miguel Herrero began his career in the execution of oil and gas projects at a major construction company before specializing in the appraisal of medium and serious claims across the industrial, engineering and general liability sectors. He has been involved in major losses including machinery breakdowns, structural collapses, fires and explosions, contributing strong technical rigor, analytical capabilities and leadership of multidisciplinary teams. An industrial engineer by training, Herrero is an active contributor to professional and educational initiatives as a conference speaker and trainer for clients and internal teams. His experience, technical judgment and clear communication deliver high value-added solutions.

Carlos Moreno contributes a deep expertise in architecture, with a strong specialization in building, litigation support, dispute resolution among multiple parties and professional liability. He has managed numerous claims, several involving significant financial impact. His background also includes fire safety and the review and design of construction projects, providing critical technical insight for claims with structural or regulatory components. He further enhances Sedgwick’s capabilities through his use of advanced technologies, including drones and thermal imaging cameras, which improve inspection accuracy and damage analysis.

“Sedgwick Iberia has long provided robust support for complex construction and industrial claims,” said ,” said Francisco Peydró, Director of Construction and Industry for Sedgwick Iberia. “The addition of Carlos, José Miguel and Rafael represents a strategic expansion of our technical capacity, allowing us to scale our services, deepen specialization. Their track records, high technical standards and market knowledge allow us to scale are highly complex claims and deliver truly differentiated service in an increasingly demanding risk environment.”

About Sedgwick

Sedgwick is the world’s leading risk and claims administration partner, helping clients thrive by navigating the unexpected. The company’s expertise, combined with the most advanced AI-enabled technology available, sets the standard for solutions in claims administration, loss adjusting, benefits administration and product recall. With over 33,000 colleagues and 10,000 clients across 80 countries, Sedgwick provides unmatched perspective, caring that counts, and solutions for the rapidly changing and complex risk landscape. Sedgwick’s majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Altas Partners, CDPQ, Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.com.

AI in insurance is expected to become an $80 billion market by 2032, yet nearly two-thirds of carriers have a gap between their AI vision and reality. Sedgwick’s new report helps support carriers understanding where they are in their AI journey, as 90% of carriers say AI needs to be orchestrated across operations to maximize their investments.  As AI tools become standard across the industry, strategy sets leading carriers apart. 

“AI is rapidly reshaping property claims, yet speed alone isn’t enough. Sedgwick’s latest report explores how carriers can move beyond experimentation to strategically scale automation, orchestrate workflows, and realize AI’s full potential across the claims lifecycle,” said Scott Richardson, President, Property of Americas, Sedgwick.

Key findings and data in the full report include:  

• While 58-82% of carriers use AI tools in their operations, only 12% of carriers claim to have fully mature AI capabilities, and only 7% have achieved scalable AI success
• 75% of claims professionals believe AI needs human oversight.
• Widespread AI adoption hasn’t translated into maturity for carriers, with fragmented tools and inconsistent data often limiting AI’s impact. 
• Automation is valuable for high-volume, low-complexity tasks, but human expertise remains critical for complex and sensitive losses.

“AI is accelerating faster than any technology in our lifetime. Strategy isn’t optional, it’s the new competitive advantage Long-term success, ROI, and impact from AI lies in how carriers leverage this technology,” said David Gauragna, Managing Director Property, Sedgwick. 

Sedgwick’s extensive expertise in AI and emerging technology has positioned the company to understand where most property carriers stand today in their AI adoption journeys, learn what’s preventing them from moving beyond pilots to fully integrated AI workflows, and drive measurable improvements. In addition, the company has nuanced expertise in strategically balancing automation with human touch, and scaling AI across organizations for long-term success. 

Mason Bartleson, Vice President Business Transformation, Sedgwick added, “fully mature AI capabilities, in tandem with human expertise, will drive measurable results in speed, accuracy, and cost savings. This report is meant to guide carriers now and well into the future as this technology continues to rapidly advance.” 

To read the full report and learn more, please visit sedgwick.

About Sedgwick

Sedgwick is the world’s leading risk and claims administration partner, helping clients thrive by navigating the unexpected. The company’s expertise, combined with the most advanced AI-enabled technology available, sets the standard for solutions in claims administration, loss adjusting, benefits administration and product recall. With over 33,000 colleagues and 10,000 clients across 80 countries, Sedgwick provides unmatched perspective, caring that counts, and solutions for the rapidly changing and complex risk landscape. Sedgwick’s majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Altas Partners, CDPQ, Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.com.

“Canada Domestic TPA has experienced significant growth over the years. To ensure we remain committed to delivering quality service, Ashlinn’s role will focus on service delivery and account management for our key domestic TPA clients,” said Kumar Siva, Chief Operating Officer, Sedgwick Canada.

“Ashlinn’s depth of technical expertise, leadership capability and unwavering commitment to client service have made her a trusted leader within our organization,” said Sandy Capone, Vice President – TPA Services, Sedgwick Canada. “Her promotion reflects the significant impact she has made on our teams, our clients and the overall strength of our Canadian TPA operations.”

Kavanagh’s areas of specialization include commercial and residential property, business interruption, builder’s risk, equipment breakdown, product recall, flood and earthquake, as well as commercial general liability, auto and trucking liability, construction and professional liability, fidelity and surety, medical malpractice, bodily injury, accident benefits and litigation management.

“Throughout my career, I’ve valued the opportunity to work closely with clients and teams to navigate complex claims and deliver meaningful results. In this new role, I’m focused on building on that experience while contributing to the continued growth of Sedgwick’s TPA services in Canada,” said Kavanagh.

Kavanagh holds the Chartered Insurance Professional (CIP) designation and is a licensed adjuster in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba and Ontario. She earned a Certificate in Business Administration and Insurance from Mount Royal University in Calgary, Alberta.

About Sedgwick

Sedgwick is the world’s leading risk and claims administration partner, helping clients thrive by navigating the unexpected. The company’s expertise, combined with the most advanced AI-enabled technology available, sets the standard for solutions in claims administration, loss adjusting, benefits administration and product recall. With over 33,000 colleagues and 10,000 clients across 80 countries, Sedgwick provides unmatched perspective, caring that counts, and solutions for the rapidly changing and complex risk landscape. Sedgwick’s majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Altas Partners, CDPQ, Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.com.

Sedgwick’s quarterly report on European product safety and recall trends provides in-depth analysis of recall activity and regulatory changes across the automotive, consumer products, food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and medical device sectors. This special State of the Nation edition offers a comprehensive year-in-review analysis of 2025 recall data and product safety trends, as well as a deeper dive into fourth quarter developments. 

Recall volumes increased year-over-year across every European sector except medical device. The automotive industry and key consumer product sub-sectors were particularly notable. Both recorded increases of more than 30% compared to 2024 and reached 10-year highs. The food and beverage and pharmaceutical sectors saw six-year highs, despite experiencing more moderate increases of 1% and 12%, respectively. While the medical device industry was the only one to experience a year-over-year decline, recall activity in 2025 remained the second-highest level on record, trailing only 2024.

In addition to recall data and analysis, the State of the Nation Product Safety and Recall Index delivers essential insights into the regulatory developments that shaped 2025 and perspectives on what product safety stakeholders should anticipate for 2026. In 2025, regulating the development and use of AI was a focus for both the UK and EU. Authorities considered how to promote innovation while ensuring the safety of AI-enabled products and software. The two jurisdictions also continued to advance significant overhauls to their life sciences sectors, including updates to medical device regulations and strategies to boost research activities.

Food and beverage companies may see new reporting requirements and updates to labelling and advertising rules as part of two big UK initiatives. However, an EU-UK sanitary and phytosanitary agreement could provide some relief from the need for certificates and checks on animals, plants, and related products traded across borders.

EU and UK regulators reevaluated several recently passed rules with an eye toward simplifying compliance for companies, including around environmental commitments. While U.S. tariffs and UK and EU responses have created challenges, both jurisdictions continued to work on plans to boost their own competitiveness on the global stage. In 2026, authorities are likely to continue promoting innovation and research across sectors to remain competitive.

“European businesses are navigating an era of record-breaking product recalls and rapidly evolving regulations,” cautioned Chris Occleshaw, International Product Recall Consultant at Sedgwick. “While regulators are trying to ease the burdens on companies and streamline compliance, there are still areas where multiple rules overlap or extend liability for the full product life cycle. These factors create uncertainty and complexity. Companies must invest in comprehensive compliance programs, closely monitor regulatory developments, and continually strengthen product safety standards and post market surveillance processes.”

To download the 2026 State of the Nation European Product Safety and Recall Index, click here.

Sedgwick publishes its European Product Safety and Recall Index every quarter. It is the only report that aggregates and tracks recall data and regulatory changes across multiple government agencies and industries to help stakeholders respond to product recall trends, dynamic legislation, and other in-market challenges. For more information, visit www.sedgwick.com/product-recall.

About Sedgwick

Sedgwick is the world’s leading risk and claims administration partner, helping clients thrive by navigating the unexpected. The company’s expertise, combined with the most advanced AI-enabled technology available, sets the standard for solutions in claims administration, loss adjusting, benefits administration and product recall. With over 33,000 colleagues and 10,000 clients across 80 countries, Sedgwick provides unmatched perspective, caring that counts, and solutions for the rapidly changing and complex risk landscape. Sedgwick’s majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Altas Partners, CDPQ, Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.com.

MEMPHIS, Tenn., February 19, 2026 – U.S. product recall activity increased in 2025, with both the frequency of recall events and volume of defective units rising year-over-year. According to Sedgwick’s 2026 State of the Nation U.S. Product Safety and Recall Index report, a total of 3,295 recalls were recorded across the five industries analyzed, up slightly from 3,232 in 2024. For context, only three years in the past decade have recorded a higher number. The increase in defective units was more significant, rising 26% from 681 million in 2024 to 858 million units in 2025. 

Sedgwick’s quarterly Product Safety and Recall Index report provides in-depth analysis of recall activity across the automotive, consumer products, food and drink, pharmaceutical, and medical device sectors. This special State of the Nation edition offers a comprehensive year-in-review analysis of 2025 recall data and product safety trends, as well as a deeper dive into fourth quarter developments and data. 

For the full year, the consumer products, food and drink, and pharmaceutical sectors all experienced higher recall volumes than in 2024. Notably, the consumer products industry recorded its highest annual total in over a decade. Both the medical device and automotive industries saw modest declines in recall activity of 8% and 6%, respectively. 

In terms of defective units, the pharmaceutical, food and drink, and medical device sectors experienced year-over-year increases, while the consumer products and automotive industries saw declines. Defective automotive units fell to an 11-year low.

In addition to recall data and analysis, the State of the Nation Product Safety and Recall Index report delivers essential insights into the regulatory developments that shaped 2025 and perspectives on what product safety stakeholders should anticipate for 2026. There were considerable changes in 2025 as the Trump Administration established and advanced new regulatory priorities and shifted how policy changes are implemented. Both penalties—in the form of tariffs—and incentives were used to encourage companies to shift production facilities to the U.S. or increase existing operations.

Conducting effective product recalls was also an important topic across several industries in 2025. Regulators reminded stakeholders of their responsibilities and issued heavy fines—and in one instance prison sentences—for delays in reporting product defects. 

Department secretaries made sweeping changes to long-standing policies around trade and health. That trend will likely continue in 2026. Key areas of focus include trade and tariffs, increasing domestic manufacturing across multiple industries, lowering the prices of pharmaceuticals, reducing regulations viewed as burdensome to business, and easing environmental restrictions. 

“Despite shifting priorities and policy changes, product safety remains at the core of U.S. regulatory activities,” said Chris Harvey, Senior Vice President for Sedgwick. “Regulators across industries are looking to increase oversight, improve the effectiveness of product recalls, and expand post market responsibilities beyond just the manufacturer. By prioritizing both safety and compliance, organizations can protect consumers, uphold their reputations, and thrive amid ongoing change.”

To download the 2026 State of the Nation U.S. Product Safety and Recall Index report, click here.

Sedgwick publishes its Product Safety and Recall Index every quarter. It is the only report that aggregates and tracks recall data across multiple government agencies and industries to help stakeholders respond to the regulatory environment, product recalls, and other in-market challenges. For more information, visit www.sedgwick.com/product-recall.

About Sedgwick

Sedgwick is the world’s leading risk and claims administration partner, helping clients thrive by navigating the unexpected. The company’s expertise, combined with the most advanced AI-enabled technology available, sets the standard for solutions in claims administration, loss adjusting, benefits administration and product recall. With over 33,000 colleagues and 10,000 clients across 80 countries, Sedgwick provides unmatched perspective, caring that counts, and solutions for the rapidly changing and complex risk landscape. Sedgwick’s majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Altas Partners, CDPQ, Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.com.

“Mark’s depth of technical knowledge, leadership experience, and proven ability to manage large and complex losses make him a strong addition to our team,” said Lee Powell, Vice President, Executive General Adjuster, Sedgwick Canada. “His background aligns well with our continued focus on delivering high‑quality, responsive claims solutions across the region.”

Hamilton brings more than 10 years of claims management experience, specializing in complex property and casualty losses across a broad range of industries. His expertise includes commercial and residential property, builder’s risk, course of construction, commercial general liability, and contractor’s equipment losses, supported by strong technical proficiency in restoration methodology and loss scoping. He has successfully managed numerous high‑severity losses, including hotel and resort fires, high‑rise condominium water losses, warehouse and church fires, and major healthcare and agricultural claims.

Devin Shillington, Vice President Sales/Regional Manager-West, Sedgwick Canada, added, “Mark’s appointment reflects our continued investment in talent. His experience handling complex, large‑scale losses across property, construction, and liability aligns perfectly with the evolving needs of our clients in the region.”

Hamilton added, “joining Sedgwick represents an opportunity to continue working on complex and meaningful claims. I’m proud to be part of an organization recognized as a leader in the market.”

Hamilton holds his Chartered Insurance Professional (CIP) designation from the Insurance Institute of Canada and is licensed as an Independent Adjuster in Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and Ontario
 
About Sedgwick

Sedgwick is the world’s leading risk and claims administration partner, helping clients thrive by navigating the unexpected. The company’s expertise, combined with the most advanced AI-enabled technology available, sets the standard for solutions in claims administration, loss adjusting, benefits administration and product recall. With over 33,000 colleagues and 10,000 clients across 80 countries, Sedgwick provides unmatched perspective, caring that counts, and solutions for the rapidly changing and complex risk landscape. Sedgwick’s majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Altas Partners, CDPQ, Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.



 
 

Chan is a seasoned insurance claims professional with more than 25 years of experience specializing in major and complex loss adjusting. Known for her ability to navigate intricate claims environments, she has built a reputation as a solutions‑driven adjuster who excels at process optimization, client service, and collaborative problem‑solving. Her background includes extensive work in large loss, casualty, and product liability claims, and she is recognized for her ability to engineer creative, efficient pathways to resolution. She joined Sedgwick in 2011 and has progressed through senior roles, including Senior Adjuster and Senior General Adjuster, Major & Complex Loss.

“Daphne’s promotion reflects the depth of expertise and leadership she has demonstrated throughout her career. For more than two decades, she has set a high standard in major and complex loss adjusting, consistently delivering clarity, precision, and strong results,” said Lee Powell, Vice President, Executive General Adjuster, Sedgwick Canada. “She will lead with a blend of technical depth, strategic thinking, and a relentless commitment to service excellence.”

Chan will lead the growth of the British Columbia condo segment within Strata Claims, with a strong emphasis on expanding the team and strengthening capabilities in multi‑unit and large‑loss files. She will apply her extensive expertise and long‑standing leadership in major and complex loss adjusting to elevate the province’s strata portfolio.

“Stepping into this new role marks an important progression in my career. I’m committed to leading our team with clarity, collaboration, and a solutions‑focused approach that supports both our adjusters and our clients,” said Chan. “My work on major and complex loss claims has shaped my professional foundation, and I look forward to enhancing client relationships, and ensuring we navigate challenging claims with consistency and excellence.”

Chan is an active member of the Canadian Insurance Adjusters Association (CIAA). She is currently working toward her Chartered Insurance Professional (CIP) designation. She holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of British Columbia.

About Sedgwick

Sedgwick is the world’s leading risk and claims administration partner, helping clients thrive by navigating the unexpected. The company’s expertise, combined with the most advanced AI-enabled technology available, sets the standard for solutions in claims administration, loss adjusting, benefits administration and product recall. With over 33,000 colleagues and 10,000 clients across 80 countries, Sedgwick provides unmatched perspective, caring that counts, and solutions for the rapidly changing and complex risk landscape. Sedgwick’s majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Altas Partners, CDPQ, Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.com.

MEMPHIS, Tenn., Jan. 29, 2026 – Sedgwick, the world’s leading risk and claims administration partner, has published new Workforce Absence and Disability Trends Report highlighting key trends from 2025 and offering predictions for 2026, including shifting regulations and the impact of emerging technology on absence management and the future of work. The findings offer a forward-looking perspective for HR leaders as they navigate complex compliance challenges and evolving employee expectations. 

In preparing the report, Sedgwick sourced trends and predictions from the company’s top experts, with a focus on guiding organizations through emerging risks in the workforce absence landscape. The insights were published to help employers in adapting to political and regulatory changes, such as shifting Department of Labor (DOL) priorities and compliance rules under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Additionally, the report serves as a guide in navigating AI implementation, escalating mental health claims, new strategies for return to work policy, and much more. 

“Today’s rapidly changing and increasingly complex environment requires employers to stay agile and informed,” said Marwan Shiblaq, Sedgwick’s President of Workforce Absence. “Executives and HR leaders have to make smart choices about their disability and leave plans, policies, and how they take care of their workforce. Our new report is designed to help organizations prepare for the industry conversations shaping the current employment landscape.” 

According to the report, among the top trends from 2025 are: 

• Evolving generational workforce needs: Employees today expect robust, flexible benefits that address a range of life circumstances and consider holistic wellness. 
• AI adoption: Across the employee benefits spectrum, advanced technology is reshaping processes and improving efficiency but may introduce additional risks. 
• Rising mental health concerns: Mental health has become a leading driver of employee absence, with stress, anxiety, and burnout affecting productivity across industries. 
• Rethinking return to work: With today’s flexible work options, coming back to the office following leave is just one of many recovery solutions. 

Sedgwick experts’ top predictions for 2026 include: 

• More federal regulation: Many agencies have received less funding and had their regulatory authority diminished by courts. But with key congressional and gubernatorial seats on the ballot in this year’s midterm elections, the balance of power may shift. 
• Expansion of paid family and medical leave (PFML): In the absence of a federal mandate, states and municipalities are working to implement jurisdictional PFML. In the next two years, we could see 17 states with mandatory paid leave, with others allowing insured programs through carrier providers. 
• Changes to the Pregnancy Workers Fairness Act: The abortion provisions will likely be removed and pregnancy-related definitions narrowed. 
• New frontiers in AI: Data-driven insights could transform absence management, enabling proactive interventions and better forecasting. 

“Regulatory developments won’t wait, and neither should employers looking to stay ahead of the curve,” said David Setkzorn, Sedgwick SVP and Workforce Absence and Disability Practice Leader. “The Sedgwick team of disability and absence experts continually tracks changes in federal, state, and local rules and provides actionable insights that turn uncertainty into clarity. Our unmatched perspective helps organizations navigate the unexpected, so they can stay compliant, safeguard resources, and keep employees thriving.”

The trends, predictions and data in the workforce absence report will be monitored by the company’s contributing experts throughout the year. For more on the full report, visit the Sedgwick website.

About Sedgwick

Sedgwick is the world’s leading risk and claims administration partner, helping clients thrive by navigating the unexpected. The company’s expertise, combined with the most advanced AI-enabled technology available, sets the standard for solutions in claims administration, loss adjusting, benefits administration and product recall. With over 33,000 colleagues and 10,000 clients across 80 countries, Sedgwick provides unmatched perspective, caring that counts, and solutions for the rapidly changing and complex risk landscape. Sedgwick’s majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Altas Partners, CDPQ, Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.com.