Reinsurance News

HDI Global names Yamasaki as MD and Legal Representative, Japan

6th January 2026 - Author: Saumya Jain -

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HDI Global, an international insurer specialising in commercial and industrial clients, has appointed Hiro Yamasaki as Managing Director and Legal Representative of its Japanese branch.

HDI Global logoThe appointment aligns with the insurer’s broader regional growth strategy, reinforcing its commitment to disciplined underwriting, sustainable growth, and strong partnerships with clients and brokers.

The insurer believes his strong track record in disciplined underwriting, cross-cultural leadership, and sustainable growth will support HDI Global Japan’s next stage of development.

Yamasaki brings over 25 years of experience in commercial property & casualty underwriting, portfolio management, and international leadership.

He has held senior roles in Japan and the US, leading large-scale underwriting initiatives and managing group-wide natural catastrophe (natcat) exposure.

Most recently, Yamasaki served in a global corporate underwriting function, driving underwriting enhancements, natcat exposure optimisation, and advanced AI strategies within the underwriting domain.

David Hullin, Member of the HDI Global Executive Board, commented on the appointment, “Japan is a key market for HDI Global, and strengthening our leadership team is an important step in our growth strategy.

“Hiro brings deep technical expertise and international experience that perfectly complement our disciplined underwriting approach. His appointment underlines our commitment to sustainable, profitable growth and to being the partner in transformation for clients and brokers in Japan.”

Yamasaki added, “I am honoured to join HDI Global and excited to work with our talented Japan team. My focus will be on disciplined and sustainable growth, built on underwriting excellence, clear communication, and strong partnerships with our brokers and clients. HDI has strong momentum in Japan, and I look forward to contributing to the next chapter of development together with the team.”

Casey Sandler, who has successfully managed the Japanese branch on an interim basis since August 1st, 2025, has decided to continue his career outside of the company.

“We would like to thank Casey for his commitment and the valuable contributions he made in the various roles he held at HDI Global Japan. His leadership strengthened our position in this dynamic market. We are sorry to see him leave and wish him all the best for his future endeavours,” concluded Hullin.