Willis Re Bermuda gets new CEO
Willis Group Holdings has appointed Michael Harden, the chairman of Willis Re Australia, as CEO of Willis Re Bermuda, effective January 1, 2014. He replaces James Kent who is now president of Willis Re North America.
Harden said: “This is a great opportunity. I look forward to beginning a new chapter in my career and embracing a new challenge. My focus will be to further enhance Willis Re's profile on the island, and build upon the team's current success.”
John Cavanagh, global chief executive officer of Willis Re, commented: “Given Bermuda's special place within the global reinsurance network, it is crucial for Willis Re to constantly invest in enhancing our client offering there. Michael has been key in building our Australian operation into one of our most preeminent reinsurance franchises, and so will play a crucial role in driving the development of our Bermuda team.”
Harden began his career at Willis Re in London in 1976, working through the ranks to become a senior marine London Market excess of loss broker, before leaving the company and moving to Australia in 1985. In 1991 Harden re-joined Willis Re as a director at Willis Re Australia, becoming the CEO in 2007 and chairman earlier this year. In addition to his new role, Harden will remain non-executive chairman of Willis Re Australia.
