Willis Re has appointed Chris McDowell as the next CEO of Willis Re Bermuda. He will take over the top job in January from Michael Harden, who has held the post for two years.

John Cavanagh, global CEO of Willis Re, said: “Chris will be a huge asset to Willis Re — his knowledge and experience will bring considerable benefit to our clients.

“As a substantial producer, he will no doubt continue the growth of our already strong presence in Bermuda, which is a major strategic reinsurance market for Willis Re and our clients.”

He added: “Mike has developed a strong team and a solid foundation for continued growth, fully aligned to Willis Re’s global office network.”

Mr McDowell will join Willis Re from Aon Benfield in Bermuda, where he was CEO of global re-specialty.

He previously worked for Guy Carpenter, which brought him to Bermuda in 2004 where he was managing director in the global re-specialty division.

Mr Harden will move to Asia Pacific region as president of Willis Re Asia Pacific. He joined Willis Re in 1976, rising to senior marine London market excess-of-loss broker before moving to Australia in 1985.

He rejoined Willis Re in Australia in 1991 as a director and became the CEO in 2007 and chairman six years later before taking up his post on the island.

Mr Cavanagh said: “His return to Asia Pacific to support our existing leadership team will likewise further our growth activities and the delivery of Willis Re’s global offering to clients as these markets continue to build momentum.”