New global specialties CEO at Willis Re

Willis Re has announced the appointment of Jim Summers as chief executive, global specialties, effective immediately. 

The company said that Summers will lead the strategic direction and drive growth across all specialty classes globally. Working closely with the senior leadership team, he will also help strengthen Willis Re’s global platform and support its long-term expansion plans. 

According to Willis Re Summers is a highly respected market leader with more than 40 years of experience across the Lloyd’s and international reinsurance broking markets and is widely recognised for building and scaling successful specialty businesses. He brings market-leading expertise across global specialty classes, strong technical knowledge and a proven track record of developing long-standing client and reinsurer relationships. 

Summers joins Willis Re from Guy Carpenter, where he most recently served as deputy chief executive, global specialties, and global head of marine & energy specialty, having joined the firm in 2011. Prior to this, he was chief executive of Cooper Gay, following his appointment to the role in 2006. 

Commenting on the appointment, Lucy Clarke, board member of Willis Re, said: “Jim is one of the most respected leaders in the global specialty market, with an outstanding track record of building long-term client partnerships and high-performing businesses, making him an exceptional addition to the Willis Re leadership team. As we continue to build a modern, client-focused reinsurance broking business, Jim will play a critical role in elevating our market standing and helping shape the future of our global business.” 

Summers added: “Willis Re is a forward-thinking reinsurance broking business that is being built around evolving client needs. The opportunity to join the company at this stage of its development is incredibly exciting. The business has a clear vision, underpinned by strong leadership and a collaborative culture. I look forward to working with colleagues across the organization to strengthen our specialty capabilities and deliver exceptional support to clients operating in an increasingly complex global risk environment.”