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6 January 2023Insurance

Sompo lands top Howden Specialty officer to lead commercial lines in Asia

Property and casualty re/insurer Sompo International has hired the CEO of Howden Specialty’s Asia Pacific operations to lead its commercial lines business in the region.

Paul O’Neill has been appointed president of commercial lines, insurance, Asia Pacific reporting to Julian James, Sompo International’s CEO, Global Markets, Commercial P&C and Daniel Neo, CEO, Asia Pacific, Sompo International. He will start in the new role this month and be based in Singapore.

O’Neill will be accountable for developing and driving the strategy for Sompo International’s commercial business across Asia Pacific, excluding Japan, to help meet the company’s ambitious growth goals.

O’Neill most recently held the role of CEO for AsiaPac at Howden Specialty. Prior to that, he was chief underwriting officer specialty at AGCS and member of the board of management.

James said: “I’m thrilled to welcome Paul to the team. With extensive international experience on both the broking and insurer side, we will rely on Paul to build out our commercial insurance capabilities in Asia Pacific, with a focus on profitable growth and collaboration across our organisation to bring the highest quality products and services that best meet client and broker needs.”

Neo added: “I’m looking forward to working together with Paul to leverage the strength of Sompo for the benefit of our clients and brokers across the Asia Pacific region. I am confident that the team here will benefit from his rich and extensive experience in specialty insurance and leadership.”

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