BMS Group, the independent specialist (re)insurance broker with an operation in Bermuda, has appointed former PartnerRe boss Emmanuel Clarke as chairman.

The news comes as BMS announced the formal completion of the French private equity firm Eurazeo’s investment in the group, which followed receipt of regulatory approval.

Mr Clarke spent 25 years with PartnerRe, including 2016 through 2020 as president and CEO in Bermuda, and 2010 through 2015 as CEO of PartnerRe Global in Zurich.

He takes over as chairman from John Hastings-Bass, who will remain with BMS as chairman of its British and international operations.

BMS Group CEO Nick Cook said: “With the closure of this transaction, we move into 2024 on a wave of momentum with the capital required to further drive our vision of becoming the independent specialty insurance and reinsurance broker of choice.”

He added: “I also welcome Emmanuel to BMS. His successful build-out of PartnerRe’s global reinsurance business during his 25-year tenure alongside his experience with progressive, data, digital and technology-driven financial models will immediately contribute to BMS.”

BMS said British Columbia Investment Management Corporation, London-based Preservation Capital Partners, management and staff remain significant investors in the business.