24 August 2016 Insurance

Willis Re poaches Aon Benfield CEO for Bermuda role

Willis Re has appointed Chris McDowell as the chief executive officer of Willis Re Bermuda, effective January 1 2017.

McDowell succeeds Michael Harden, the former CEO since 2014, who is taking up the position of president of Willis Re Asia Pacific.

McDowell has over 30 years of experience in the industry, having most recently served as CEO of global re-specialty in Bermuda for Aon Benfield.

Prior to this, he has held senior positions in Guy Carpenter and Carter Wilkes & Fane.

Harden has over 40 years of experience in property/casualty reinsurance, having served as the director of Willis Re Australia, before taking up the position of CEO for Willis Re Bermuda.

John Cavanagh, global CEO of Willis Re, commented: “Chris will be a huge asset to Willis Re. His knowledge and experience will bring considerable benefit to our clients. As a substantial producer he will no doubt continue the growth of our already strong presence in Bermuda, which is a major strategic reinsurance market for Willis Re and our clients.

“Mike has developed a strong team and a solid foundation for continued growth, fully aligned to Willis Re’s global office network. His return to Asia Pacific to support our existing leadership team will likewise further our growth activities and the delivery of Willis Re’s global offering to clients as these markets continue to build momentum.”

Maurice Williams, managing director of Willis Re’s APMETA region, added: “Mike has extensive experience in the Asia Pacific region and brings a breadth of knowledge from across Willis Re to serve the rapidly evolving risk and capital needs of our clients. I look forward to working with him again more closely to drive Willis Re’s service offering and production efforts in the region, particularly given the additional capabilities we now have on board as part of Willis Towers Watson.”

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