Willis Re appoints Summers as global specialties CEO

Willis Re has appointed Jim Summers as CEO of global specialties, effective immediately.

Summers (pictured) will lead strategic direction and growth across all specialty classes globally.

He will work with the senior leadership team to strengthen Willis Re’s global platform and support its long-term expansion plans.

Summers has more than 40 years’ experience across the Lloyd’s and international reinsurance broking markets.

Willis Re said he is recognised for building and scaling specialty businesses, with expertise across global specialty classes and long-standing client and reinsurer relationships.

He joins from Guy Carpenter, where he was most recently deputy CEO, global specialties, and global head of marine and energy specialty.

Summers joined Guy Carpenter in 2011. Before that, he was CEO of Cooper Gay and Co Ltd, having been appointed to the role in 2006.

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 said: “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,” he added.