Since 2009, FULLCOVER has been a lens through which MDS has viewed the insurance and risk world. Over the years, our pages have featured some of the most relevant figures in the worldwide insurance and risk sector, shining a light on emerging risks, future trends and the state of our industry, including daring theories by some of the most reputed professionals. As an MDS project, FULLCOVER fully embodies the MDS DNA – curious, brave, focused on sharing knowledge, and always celebrating achievement.

This year, FULLCOVER celebrates Brokerslink. And as leader of both MDS and Brokerslink I am very proud to be able to introduce this special edition, focused on the rich history and growth of the global broking network. Over the past twenty years, the fortunes and successes of these two organisations have developed in parallel; Brokerslink was founded and nurtured by MDS, but in doing so, MDS also gained something invaluable: access to the global insurance world.

The Brokerslink story began in 2004, with a vision for a broking collective like no other. At the time, MDS was a relatively small broker from a relatively small market, but we saw potential in uniting like-minded brokers from different countries to work in true partnership to help each other grow, share business and knowledge, and build trust-based relationships that would give clients the best possible support.

From this nucleus of an idea came what I can only describe as a parallel “Big Bang”, simultaneous explosions of growth, innovation, and expansion that would transform both organisations into the powerful global businesses they are today.

For a company the size of MDS, this transformation was revolutionary. Over a short period of time, and thanks to the support and belief of many great friends in the market, we connected with major players across the globe, bringing visibility, expertise, and opportunities to the MDS Group. What started as a growth project became the catalyst for our own international expansion. Today, Brokerslink stands as a unique force in the global broking landscape. We’ve built something that cannot be easily replicated – a network undoubtedly founded on strong principles, driven by a pro-business culture focused on building rather than merely sharing business. But what makes us truly different is our culture of human-based relationships, the heart, and soul, of Brokerslink. We work together as business associates, yes – but also as friends, finding great joy in getting together – be it to pitch for new business, share an existing client or hug a longtime friend at our annual Conference, a true landmark in the life of our organisation.

The strategic alignment between, and parallel growth of our two organisations, has been remarkable to witness. As MDS expanded internationally, our paths have crossed, and some Brokerslink affiliates are now integrated into the MDS Group. From Angola to Brazil, from Malta and Cyprus to Chile, from a broker or captive insurer to a risk management company, MDS Group companies have become Partners within the Brokerslink ecosystem. And, as Brokerslink expands throughout the globe, so does MDS’s reach.

This symbiotic relationship has created something truly special: two charismatic international brands growing side by side, with shared values and ambitions. Together, but always independent. Fiercely proud of each other, while respecting each other’s individuality. Both businesses represent the power of genuine human relationships, mutual trust, value creation, innovation, and a relentless focus on supporting our network of brokers and their clients.

As we celebrate these two decades of achievement, I believe we can be immensely proud of what we’ve accomplished together. From those small beginnings, we’ve built two respected brands in our industry – brands that continue to push boundaries, challenge conventions, and unite our industry to create better solutions for our clients. I am also proud of the team we have built, the force behind the organisation, highly focused and wholly committed in connecting all and making each reunion a success.