Hiscox appoints former Prudential boss as next chair

Specialist insurer  Hiscox has revealed a new chair designate succeeding Robert Childs who will retire on July 1.

Jonathan Bloomer (pictured) has been appointed as chair designate, subject to regulatory approval.

Bloomer was a partner at Arthur Andersen before joining Prudential in 1995, initially as CFO and then taking the role of CEO from 2000 to 2005. His final executive role was as an operating partner at Cerberus. A seasoned board director, Bloomer is currently serving as chair of Morgan Stanley International, DWF Group and SDL Group Holdings.

Colin Keogh, Hiscox senior independent director, said: "After an extensive search I am delighted to have led the process that resulted in the Nominations and Governance Committee selecting Jonathan as the Board's next Chair. We will benefit from his experience and leadership and we are all very much looking forward to working with him.

"I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Rob once again for the immense contributions he has made during his long and distinguished career, not only to Hiscox but to the wider industry. He has navigated many insurance cycles, mentored many underwriters and leaves a legacy of integrity and strong results. We wish him all the best for the future."

Childs said: "The Board has made an outstanding choice in Jonathan Bloomer to be the next Chair of Hiscox. He joins the Group at an exciting time, with a range of opportunities ahead for continued profitable growth."

Aki Hussain, Hiscox Group CEO, said: "I am very much looking forward to working with Jonathan. His deep experience in driving international growth and managing complexity across a range of financial services companies and other businesses will be extremely valuable to us."

Bloomer commented: "I am delighted to be joining Hiscox, it is a great company, with a distinctive culture and an exciting future. I look forward to being part of the team."

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