Nicola McCluskie: Bringing Legal Experience and Renewable Insights to our Scottish & Northern Irish Team
Image: Nicola McCluskie, Senior Corporate Development Underwriter and Solicitor
Nicola McCluskie, the newest member of our team in Scotland is a welcome addition to Westcor, joining us as Senior Corporate Development Underwriter and Solicitor. Nicola’s extensive experience and expertise in both legal practice and title insurance adds significant value to our Scottish and Northern Irish offering, with a goal of not only supporting our underwriting practices, but also helping to drive the business forward.
With a career spanning prestigious firms and roles, Nicola brings a wealth of knowledge to her new position. Having previously worked at another major title insurer and distinguished legal practices such as Brodies, Addleshaw Goddard, and Pinsent Masons, Nicola demonstrates a versatile blend of legal acumen and industry insight.
From Private Practice to Title Insurance
Nicola’s transition from private practice to title insurance stemmed from her passion for understanding title issues and building strong client relationships. Her experience in both sides of the business provides a rounded approach to underwriting and assists in finding quick solutions for clients.
In her tenure at previous legal firms, Nicola dealt with general real estate work and specialised in the property elements of renewable energy projects, acting for landowners, funders and developers alike.
This specialised background equips her with a unique perspective, enabling her to navigate complex transactions and provide tailored solutions in her role at Westcor. “I have always particularly enjoyed the problem-solving and analytical side of energy projects so I can readily apply these skills to title insurance.”
Nicola’s experience in title insurance to date encompasses work across the UK which puts her in good stead for the variety of jurisdictions we support at Westcor. This experience also provides insight into the challenges and opportunities faced by each region.
Industry Updates
Joining the Scotland team, Nicola identifies an exciting opportunity to showcase just what’s possible in the world of title insurance. “I’ve noticed during my time in private practice, colleagues sometimes weren’t fully aware of the diverse range of products available and the risks they can easily cover to streamline completions.”
In terms of wider economic challenges, Nicola acknowledges that the election coming up later in the year could pose a challenge which could impact on foreign investment and the residential market. However, Nicola points out that “there is so much happening in the energy space just now and in the future, particularly with the race to Net Zero, so there is a lot to be excited about.”
Why Westcor?
When asked about her decision to join Westcor, Nicola highlights the company’s boutique approach and commitment to tailored risk analysis as major draws.
“Westcor’s expertise lies in dealing with bespoke and tailored risk analysis and solutions for clients. The recent partnership with Chaucer is an important milestone and takes Westcor to the next level which is really exciting to be part of.”
In her spare time…
Outside of work, Nicola enjoys spending time with her Romanian rescue dog, Bear whilst enjoying the best of Scotland’s landscape, nearby wind farms and listening to the latest episode of ‘The Diary of a CEO’ by Stephen Bartlett.
Never shying away from a challenge, Nicola’s expertise in renewable energy, complicated risk and legal background will be a welcome addition to our team in Scotland, driving innovation, analytic insight and problem solving for our clients.
