Company: DWF
Move: Simon Pemberton Appointed as Global Head of Corporate Claims
DWF, a global provider of integrated legal and business services, has announced the appointment of Simon Pemberton as the new global head of corporate claims within its Claims Management and Adjusting (CMA) business. With over 30 years of experience in insurance claims management, Simon has held senior leadership roles at organizations like Sun Alliance International, Zurich Municipal, and Gallagher Bassett. Most recently, he served as UK CEO at Gallagher Bassett, where he was instrumental in shaping both local and international strategies.
Simon’s expertise in the field has earned him industry accolades, including a spot on Insurance Business’s Global 100 List in 2022. His appointment follows DWF’s recent strategic growth initiatives, including the acquisition of Proclaim in September 2024 and the addition of regional CMA leaders in Spain, North America, and Europe. These moves underscore DWF’s commitment to enhancing its global claims management capabilities.
Expressing enthusiasm for his new role, Simon stated, “I am delighted to join DWF and lead the global corporate claims team. My decades of experience in the UK corporate sector have given me valuable market insights, and I look forward to collaborating with the talented professionals at DWF to elevate our services.” Paul Cowen, Global Head of CMA, welcomed Simon, noting that his deep industry knowledge and leadership will be instrumental in achieving DWF’s growth and innovation objectives worldwide.
Company: Carbon Underwriting
Move: Alex Poracchia Appointed as Chief Financial Officer
Carbon Underwriting Limited (Carbon), a specialist managing general underwriter and Lloyd’s syndicate, has announced the appointment of Alex Poracchia as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO). With over 30 years of experience in financial leadership roles at Swiss Re, Zurich, and Everest Insurance, as well as consulting with Deloitte, Alex’s expertise spans both established organizations and high-growth businesses.
Since its launch five years ago, Carbon has achieved remarkable milestones, becoming the first Lloyd’s Syndicate-In-a-Box to graduate to full Lloyd’s Syndicate status. Its flagship Syndicate 4747 has consistently secured approval for significant GWP stamp increases. The company’s commitment to innovation, particularly in the delegated authority sector, has been further demonstrated by its integration of GenAI technology to enhance data processing within its Graphene platform.
In his role as CFO, Alex will oversee Carbon’s global financial operations and contribute to strengthening its position as an industry leader. His financial expertise and leadership are set to play a vital role in supporting Carbon’s continued evolution and technological advancements, driving the company’s next phase of growth and success.
Company: Cytora
Move: Clive Buesnel Appointed to Advisory Board
Cytora has announced the expansion of its global advisory board, welcoming Clive Buesnel, Managing Partner International of Insurance Advisory Partners. With a distinguished career in the insurance sector, Clive has held leadership roles including CEO of Tysers, Vice Chairman and UK Head of Insurance at Deloitte, and a founding member of Xchanging. His expertise in strategic transformation will play a pivotal role in supporting Cytora’s continued global expansion.
Clive joins an elite advisory board comprised of leaders from across the Commercial and Specialty insurance sectors. The group includes Bronek Masojada, Chair of SiriusPoint, Kelly Lyles, board member at Convex and Howden Group, and Emmanuel Clarke, Chair of BMS, among others. These executives bring decades of experience from top-tier brokers, insurers, and reinsurers, many of whom have spearheaded large-scale transformation programs. The appointments come during a period of significant growth for Cytora, marked by partnerships with industry leaders such as Chubb and Arch.
Expressing enthusiasm for his new role, Clive said, “I’m tremendously excited to work with Cytora as they accelerate the digitization of the insurance industry, transforming the client, broker, and insurer experience.” Cytora CEO Richard Hartley added, “Clive’s strategic expertise and deep understanding of the value chain will be instrumental in helping our clients and partners navigate the transformative opportunities of artificial intelligence.” The expanded advisory board underscores Cytora’s commitment to innovation and industry leadership as it continues to revolutionize the insurance landscape.
Company: Africa Specialty Risk
Move: Genevieve Ahinful and Suzan Pardesi Appointed as Deputy Active Underwriters
Africa Specialty Risks (ASR), the Africa and Middle East-focused (re)insurance group, has appointed Genevieve Ahinful and Suzan Pardesi as Deputy Active Underwriters for Syndicate 2454. Genevieve, Head of Political Risk and Trade Credit, brings over 20 years of experience, having worked at firms like Euler Hermes, Aon, and African Trade & Investment Development Insurance. Suzan, Head of Energy, has over 24 years of industry expertise, with roles at XL Insurance, Navigators, and Arup. Both joined ASR in 2020 and will now support the syndicate’s growth under Active Underwriter Martin Boreham.
Launched in April 2024, Syndicate 2454 represents a significant milestone for ASR. The syndicate has seen notable expansion through increased line sizes and the creation of the Baobab Consortium. CEO Mikir Shah emphasized, “Genevieve and Suzan are exceptional underwriters whose specialty expertise will drive our capacity growth and underwriting leadership.” The appointments underscore ASR’s commitment to innovation and technical excellence in the Africa and Middle East markets.
Martin Boreham, Active Underwriter for Syndicate 2454, highlighted the value Genevieve and Suzan bring: “Their deep experience across our portfolio ensures we maintain and enhance our technical underwriting capabilities across all lines of business.” These appointments signal ASR’s strategic focus on strengthening its leadership to support continued growth in the Lloyd’s market and beyond.
Company: Lloyd’s
Move: Alexander Baugh Appointed to Council
Lloyd’s, the world’s leading insurance and reinsurance marketplace, has announced the appointment of Alexander Baugh as an independent nominated member of its Council. Baugh will also assume the roles of Chair of Lloyd’s Risk Committee and member of its Audit Committee, subject to regulatory approval. He succeeds Neil Maidment, who will step down from the Council at the end of January 2025 after nine years of service.
Alexander Baugh brings over three decades of experience with AIG, where he held key leadership roles in both the U.S. and international markets. His most recent positions included President of AIG’s North America business and Global Chief Underwriting Officer for Liability and Financial Lines. With 12 years of experience in the London market and five years on Ascot’s board, Baugh has a strong connection to Lloyd’s, bolstered by his tenure as AIG’s Chief Risk Officer and other executive roles.
Bruce Carnegie-Brown, Chairman of Lloyd’s, expressed enthusiasm for Baugh’s appointment: “Alexander’s extensive experience in risk and underwriting, combined with his deep ties to the London market, make him an invaluable addition to Lloyd’s Council. We are grateful to Neil Maidment for his significant contributions to Lloyd’s governance and wish him the best for the future.” These leadership changes mark a strategic step in Lloyd’s commitment to maintaining robust governance and advancing its global initiatives.
Company: AIG
Move: Christopher Flatt Appointed as Global Chief Underwriting Officer
American International Group, Inc. (AIG) has announced the appointment of Christopher Flatt as its Global Chief Underwriting Officer, effective immediately. Reporting directly to Peter Zaffino, Chairman and CEO, Flatt will join AIG’s Executive Leadership Team. With over 30 years of experience in underwriting, risk management, and reinsurance, Flatt has established a reputation for delivering exceptional results and will lead AIG’s global underwriting team.
Peter Zaffino praised Flatt’s appointment, stating, “Chris is a highly respected insurance executive with a proven leadership track record. His diverse insurance background and ability to achieve exceptional business outcomes will bring tremendous value as our Global Chief Underwriting Officer.” Since joining AIG in 2017, Flatt has led significant initiatives, and his previous leadership roles at Marsh McLennan, GE Capital, and ITT Hartford underscore his deep industry expertise.
Flatt succeeds Christopher Schaper, who was recently appointed Chief Risk Officer at AIG. Additionally, Erin Fry, currently President of Glatfelter and EVP of AIG Commercial Lines Programs, will step into Flatt’s former role as Head of AIG North America Alternative Channels. Fry’s promotion highlights AIG’s commitment to cultivating leadership talent within its ranks, ensuring continuity and excellence across its operations.
Company: Everest
Move: Jim Williamson Appointed as Acting CEO Amid Leadership Transition
Everest Group, a global leader in property, casualty, and specialty insurance and reinsurance, has appointed Jim Williamson as its acting CEO, effective immediately. Formerly the company’s Executive Vice President and Group COO, Williamson has also joined the Board of Directors, bringing over 20 years of insurance industry experience to his new role. Since joining Everest in 2020, Williamson has overseen various divisions, including the reinsurance and insurance businesses, showcasing his expertise in operational leadership and strategic growth.
Williamson’s career includes senior roles at The Hartford, Chubb, and ACE, where he managed commercial, specialty, and consumer lines of business across the U.S. and international markets. As Everest continues its mission to provide comprehensive insurance and reinsurance solutions globally, Williamson’s leadership is expected to drive the company’s long-term strategic goals. Chairman of the Board Joseph Taranto emphasized the Board’s confidence in Williamson, noting his extensive experience and ability to lead Everest into its next phase of development.
The leadership transition follows the departure of Juan C. Andrade, who served as president and CEO since 2020 and is now pursuing a CEO role at a prominent financial services firm. Taranto expressed gratitude for Andrade’s contributions and confidence in Williamson’s ability to steer Everest forward. Williamson will work closely with Everest’s senior leadership, including CFO Mark Kociancic, to ensure the company continues to deliver exceptional value for its stakeholders while advancing its global insurance and reinsurance initiatives.
Company: Sompo
Move: Pablo Diago Appointed as Chief Claims Officer for APAC
Sompo, a leading provider of commercial and consumer property and casualty (P&C) insurance, has announced the appointment of Pablo Diago as Chief Claims Officer for its Asia Pacific (APAC) commercial and consumer insurance business. Effective immediately, Diago will be based in Singapore and report to Kenneth Reilly, Chief Executive Officer, Insurance, APAC. He will also join Sompo’s APAC executive team, tasked with overseeing operational excellence, service governance, and talent development within the regional Claims function.
Diago joined Sompo in November 2023 as Head of Claims Commercial Lines, APAC, and has since played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s operational strategy. Prior to Sompo, he worked at Crawford & Company as Regional Head of Major Claims – Asia and served as Claims Manager at HDI Global SE for over five years. His extensive background in claims management and understanding of APAC’s risk environment position him as a key leader in driving the company’s service efficiency and operational effectiveness.
Commenting on the appointment, Kenneth Reilly stated: “Pablo joined Sompo a year ago and has been pivotal in driving our operational strategy. With his technical expertise and deep understanding of APAC’s risk environment, I am confident that Pablo will lead the region’s Claims team through enhanced processes to ensure operational and service efficiency and effectiveness.” Diago’s leadership underscores Sompo’s commitment to delivering superior claims services across the APAC region.
Company: AXA XL
Move: Katherine Gerber Appointed as Head of Energy Transition in the Americas
AXA XL has named Katherine Gerber as its new Head of Energy Transition for the Americas. In this role, Gerber will leverage AXA XL’s expertise and global resources to assist clients in managing the challenges associated with energy transition while meeting their sustainability goals. Her responsibilities include devising underwriting strategies, developing innovative products and services, and guiding clients through the complexities of renewable energy adoption.
Reporting to Jon Tellekamp, Chief Underwriting Officer for Construction and Energy, Gerber brings a wealth of experience from her tenure at Liberty Mutual Insurance. There, she served as Global Strategy and Performance Lead for Energy Transition Risk, as well as held various roles focused on strategy and underwriting operations. Donna Nadeau, AXA XL’s Head of Large Commercial, praised Gerber’s ability to develop innovative strategies and drive operational excellence, stating, “With Katherine and her team’s help, we are committed to delivering tailored solutions that address the unique challenges of the transition to renewable energy and empower our clients to achieve sustainability goals.”
AXA XL’s focus on building expertise across sectors is evident in recent appointments. In addition to Gerber’s role, the company recently named Robert Malone as Head of Large Accounts and Portfolio Management for its cyber insurance team in the Americas. Last year, AXA XL expanded its client relationship leadership with the hiring of Russell Caminske and Ryan Larson as East Zone and West Zone CRLs, respectively. These appointments underscore AXA XL’s commitment to innovation, client success, and sustainable growth across industries.
Company: Duck Creek Technologies
Move: Three Key Executive Appointments
Duck Creek Technologies, a leading provider of P&C insurance software, has announced the addition of three new executives to its senior global leadership team. William Magowan has been appointed Senior Vice President of North American Sales, Elodie Hilderal is now Managing Director of EMEA, and Christian Erickson will serve as Managing Director of APAC. These leaders will work with the organization to explore new opportunities for expansion and revenue growth, leveraging their deep expertise in the insurance technology sector.
William Magowan, who rejoined Duck Creek, brings 20 years of experience in sales leadership within the insurance technology industry. He has a proven track record in developing high-performance sales teams and driving product innovation. Elodie Hilderal, with 15 years of experience in insurance and reinsurance enterprise software, steps into her new role after a successful tenure as Vice President of Sales. Christian Erickson brings over 25 years of experience in enterprise software, cloud, and professional services, having previously led financial services and insurance segments at firms like Cognizant and Accenture.
Duck Creek’s CEO, Mike Jackowski, emphasized the importance of these appointments, stating that they position the company for significant growth in 2025. With their combined industry expertise and leadership, Magowan, Hilderal, and Erickson will help Duck Creek continue to set the standard for excellence in insurance technology, ensuring lasting benefits for insurance companies and policyholders alike. These appointments are seen as a key step in Duck Creek’s ongoing efforts to expand its global reach and lead the industry.
Company: Davies
Move: Matt Button Appointed as Deputy Group CEO to Drive Global Growth
Davies, a leading provider of professional services and technology solutions for insurance and regulated markets, has appointed Matt Button as Deputy Group Chief Executive Officer, effective January 1, 2025. In his new role, Matt will take on day-to-day leadership of Davies’ three core business units, overseeing operations, sales, and marketing. Reporting to Group CEO Dan Saulter, he will focus on driving global organic growth and service. Matt has been with Davies since 2015, previously serving as Group M&A Director and CEO of Davies North America, which has become the company’s largest business unit since its launch in 2019.
Matt’s appointment follows Davies’ impressive growth trajectory, with the company achieving high single-digit organic growth annually and expanding revenues more than 25-fold since 2015. Over the years, Davies has invested in key areas such as research and development, innovation, AI, platform integration, and colleague development. The company also announced its Vision-2030 strategy, aiming to increase global revenues to £2.5-3.0 billion by 2030, with a focus on Technology & AI, organic growth, geographic expansion, and operational excellence.
Dan Saulter, Group CEO of Davies, expressed excitement about Matt’s expanded role, citing his success in growing Davies North America from zero to nearly $500 million in annual revenues. Matt shared his enthusiasm for continuing the firm’s global expansion efforts and driving exceptional client outcomes. In addition to this leadership change, Davies has appointed Amber Wilkinson as Group CFO, effective January 2025. Following Matt’s promotion, an internal process will be conducted in Q1 2025 to appoint a new CEO for Davies North America, with Dhara Patel stepping in as interim CEO in the meantime.
Company: Markel
Move: Grant Smith Appointed to Lead Transport and Logistics Team
Markel has announced the appointment of Grant Smith as the new head of its Transport and Logistics team, effective immediately. In this expanded role, Smith will be responsible for shaping the underwriting strategy, with a focus on sustainable, profitable growth. He will also work to increase market share, drive product development, and solidify Markel’s position as a market leader in the transport and logistics sector.
In addition to leading the Transport and Logistics team, Smith will continue his role as Director of Marine and Energy Liabilities, a position he assumed in August 2024. He will report to Tom Hillier, Managing Director of International Specialty at Markel. Hillier expressed confidence in Smith’s ability to navigate the complex risk landscape in transport and logistics, especially amid global economic uncertainty and regulatory changes.
Smith brings over 17 years of experience in underwriting and leadership roles, with a deep understanding of the marine, aviation, and transport sectors. Before joining Markel, he was Portfolio Manager Specialty at QBE European Operations. Smith’s extensive background in underwriting these complex classes of business will be instrumental in helping Markel’s clients and brokers manage evolving risks in the transport and logistics industry.
Company: Direct Line Group
Move: Three Key Appointments to Executive Committee
Direct Line Group has announced three key appointments to its Executive Committee. Maz Bown has joined as the Group Chief Risk Officer, Angela Yotov as Group General Counsel, and Jane Storm as Chief People Officer. While Bown started in December 2024, Yotov and Storm will begin in February 2025. These appointments are part of the company’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its leadership team and enhance its transformation efforts.
Maz Bown brings over 21 years of experience in risk management, having previously served as the Chief Risk Officer for Aviva’s UK General Insurance & Health division. In her new role, Bown will oversee risk management and control across the business. Angela Yotov joins Direct Line from Close Brothers Group plc, with more than 20 years of experience in financial services, specializing in advising investment banks and fintech firms. Jane Storm brings significant expertise in human resources, having previously held leadership positions at easyJet, Saga plc, and Tesco plc.
Angela Yotov will succeed Humphrey Tomlinson as Group General Counsel, and Jane Storm will take over from Vicky Wallis as Chief People Officer, both of whom are retiring from the Group. Adam Winslow, CEO of Direct Line Group, expressed his excitement about the new appointments, noting that these leaders will be instrumental in the company’s transformation efforts and in supporting its people through a period of significant change.
Company: Insurance Office of America
Move: Danny Anderson transition into the new role of Executive Vice President
Insurance Office of America (IOA) announced that Danny Anderson, Florida Division President, will transition into the new role of Executive Vice President. In his new position, Anderson will focus on client and carrier relationships, recruiting, mentoring, and special projects, continuing his long-standing impact at the company.
Danny Anderson has been with IOA since 2000, progressing through key leadership roles, including Vice President and Florida Regional President. He was appointed to the IOA Board of Directors in 2007 and became Florida Division President in 2022. Anderson’s contributions have been pivotal to IOA’s growth and success over the years.
As part of IOA’s ongoing growth, two new divisions, North Florida and South Florida, have been created. To lead these divisions, IOA has promoted Mike Hasner to South Florida Division President and Nate Brainard to North Florida Division President. Anderson expressed confidence in the leadership team’s ability to continue driving success at IOA.
