Global professional services firm Aon plc, has announced the appointment of Neelay Patel as Chief Executive Officer of Malaysia, taking effect in March 2026, pending completion of regulatory approvals.
Patel brings more than 20 years of experience across insurance and risk management, with a significant portion of his career focused on shaping commercial strategy and supporting business expansion across Asia. His background includes over a decade contributing to Aon’s growth initiatives and regional priorities.
In his new position, Patel will be responsible for leading Aon’s Malaysian business across Commercial Risk Solutions, Health Solutions, Talent Solutions and Wealth Solutions.
He will work in close coordination with regional solution leaders to ensure strategic alignment, improve delivery and provide integrated services that support clients’ business objectives. Based in Kuala Lumpur, Patel will report to Andrew Minnitt, Head of Southeast Asia, and will relocate from Singapore in the coming months.
“Neelay’s strategic mindset, strong client focus and values-led leadership position him exceptionally well to lead our Malaysia team,” added Minnitt. “His deep understanding of client needs and ability to mobilise teams around delivering integrated solutions will be invaluable as we help organisations navigate a rapidly evolving risk environment and achieve better outcomes.”
Patel joined Aon in 2014 and has since played a central role in advancing the firm’s regional growth strategy. Most recently serving as Head of Growth for Asia, he supported teams in delivering the full scope of Aon’s capabilities to clients while driving sales transformation efforts across multiple markets. Alongside his commercial focus, he has been actively involved in talent development initiatives aimed at building inclusive, high-performing teams.
Earlier in his career, Patel worked with Lockton in Australia and London, advising large multinational organisations across a range of sectors. His professional journey spans senior roles in Singapore, Australia, London and Malaysia, equipping him with a strong understanding of diverse market needs and regional business dynamics.
“I’m honoured to return to Malaysia to lead Aon’s business at a time when clients are navigating increasingly connected and complex risk and people challenges,” commented Patel. “I look forward to working with our talented colleagues to bring the best of Aon’s Risk Capital and Human Capital capabilities to clients — helping them make better decisions, build resilience and achieve sustainable growth.”
