Michael Harden to take the helm next year

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Willis Re Australia chairman Michael Harden has been named chief executive officer of Willis Re Bermuda, effective from 1 January.

Harden began his career at Willis Re in London in 1976, working through the ranks to become a senior marine London Market excess-of-loss broker, before leaving the company and moving to Australia in 1985.

He rejoined Willis Re Australia in 1991 as a director, before becoming chief executive in 2007 and then chairman earlier this year.

Harden will remain non-executive chairman of Willis Re Australia.

Bermuda focus

Willis Re global chief executive John Cavanagh said: “Given Bermuda’s special place within the global reinsurance network, it is crucial for Willis Re to constantly invest in enhancing our client offering there.

“Michael has been key in building our Australian operation into one of our most preeminent reinsurance franchises, and so will play a crucial role in driving the development of our Bermuda team.”

Harden said: “This is a great opportunity. I look forward to beginning a new chapter in my career. My focus will be to further enhance Willis Re’s profile on the island and build on the team’s success.”