The Bermudian reinsurer announced the retirement of Jacques Bonneau and several appointments to its senior leadership team.

Meyenhofer PartnerRe

Jacques Bonneau will retire from PartnerRe, succeeded from 1 April 2024 as CEO by Philippe Meyenhofer, the reinsurer has announced. During the interim period, most of Bonneau’s duties will be passed to Meyenhofer and Colello to ensure a smooth transition, the company said.

Stamford-based Jon Colello assumes the role of president of PartnerRe. Colello adds the title to his existing role leading the company’s property and casualty (P&C) business in the US, Canada and Latin America, and for the company’s health business in the US since joining the company in 2019.

Zurich-based Meyenhofer (pictured) joined PartnerRe in 2010 and has held positions of increasing leadership since that time, most recently as a member of the executive leadership team and CEO of specialty lines since 2020.

He was appointed to lead specialty casualty for PartnerRe Global in 2013, to Head of Europe P&C in 2016, and added the role of deputy CEO for P&C in 2018.

Christian Mitterer newly assumes executive responsibility as CEO of specialty lines, the company said, while Ingrid Gjonaj joins the executive leadership team as CEO for P&C in Europe, Middle East and Africa, reporting to Meyenhofer.

Commenting on the appointments, Thierry Derez, chairman of the PartnerRe board of directors, said: “The fact that we are in the position to appoint PartnerRe’s next CEO and president from within the company speaks to the strength and depth of talent in the organization.

“Together, Philippe and Jon bring a wealth of industry experience, proven business and leadership skills, and a strong track record in underwriting combined with a deep knowledge of PartnerRe’s clients, brokers and employees.”

Bonneau commented: “I am proud of what we have achieved and the progress we’ve made in our various business and support units and operations with the improvement in our executional performance and delivery for our numerous stakeholders. I am confident PartnerRe is well positioned for future success and Philippe, Jon and the executive leadership team provide continuity with their in-depth knowledge and insight of PartnerRe’s people and business.”

Derez also commented on Bonneau’s retirement. “On behalf of the board, I would like to express our gratitude and appreciation to Jacques for his stewardship as CEO and President over the past three and a half years,” he said.

“Under his leadership, the company’s business, strategic positioning, financial results, and operational excellence have been strengthened in important ways. Jacques also led the successful transition to Covéa ownership. Jacques has been a very dedicated and strong leader and we wish him all the best in his retirement,” Derez added.