Willis Re names James Kent as Global Deputy CEO

Reinsurance brokerage Willis Re, a division of Willis Towers Watson, has promoted James Kent from his current role as Co-President of Willis Re and President of Willis Re North America to the position of Global Deputy CEO, Willis Re, with immediate effect.

Kent has been with Willis Re since 2004, when he took on the role of Executive Vice President, Willis Re Bermuda.

Kent will retain his role as President of Willis Re North America and continue to work in New York. But with the additional responsibility of Global Deputy CEO, Kent will also work closely with Global CEO, John Cavanagh, and Global Chairman, Paddy Jago, on global reinsurance business production, client and market relationship management and to further develop Willis Re’s global operations.

John Cavanagh commented on Kent’s promotion; “James is one of the most highly regarded executives in the industry and has a stellar track record of driving innovation and financial performance. He is a well-respected leader within this business and has played a significant role in shaping Willis Re over the past decade, particularly in driving the growth of our Bermuda and North America operations. He is absolutely the right person to help further Willis Re’s global development and I look forward to working with him more closely in his new capacity as Deputy CEO.”

Carl Hess, Head of Willis Towers Watson’s Investment, Risk and Reinsurance segment, said on the announcement; “James’ appointment reflects the deep strength of Willis Re’s leadership team and the strong track record within that team of product innovation and financial performance. Under John Cavanagh, Paddy Jago and the rest of the Willis Re leadership team, Willis Re’s development as a highly collaborative and client-focused business within the investment, risk and reinsurance arena continues to set it apart in the marketplace.”

Kent added; “Willis Re is a fantastic business and I very much look forward to working more closely with Paddy, John and the rest of the Willis Re leadership team in a global capacity to take this business forward.

“I will maintain my very strong ties and working relationships within North America, but having been part of the Willis Re global leadership team now for the past six years, my new role will enable me to further the already close relationships with my International and Specialty colleagues as we continue to build our client-focused business as part of Willis Towers Watson.”

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