16 April 2015 Insurance

Willis replaces specie head after exodus to JLT

Broker Willis has appointed Seth Peller as global chief executive officer (CEO) of its fine art, jewellery and specie division.

He replaces David Gordon, who departed to head JLT Specialty’s specie, fine art and jewellery ranks, along with a number of other Willis executives.

Willis has commenced legal proceedings against the former employee and JLT, and is seeking damages for conspiracy and for breach of duty and wrongful interference in the proposed sale of its fine art, jewellery and specie division to Miller through a lawsuit brought before the High Court in London.

Peller has more than 20 years of experience in the insurance industry and has held a number of senior leadership roles at Willis in both mature and emerging markets, including global head of casualty and CEO of the firm’s Argentina operations.

Steve Hearn, deputy CEO of Willis, said: “Willis has a long and proud history in the fine art, jewellery and specie markets, providing insight-driven, comprehensive risk solutions to clients worldwide. We are committed to investing in, and continually improving, our offering to clients under Seth’s strong leadership.

“As well as knowing the London market inside out, Seth has experience in a diverse range of wholesale and retail markets.  His technical knowledge and wide-ranging relationships with colleagues, carriers and clients will ensure we remain at the forefront of this highly specialised and increasingly global market."

Peller added: “Working for the long term benefit of our clients, I want us to challenge the status quo, to innovate and to drive this business forward. We will put aside any preconceived notions, and draw on capabilities from across Willis to develop further our global offering in fine art, jewellery and specie. I’m looking forward to leading a business with a fine heritage and an exciting future.”

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