HDI has restructured its operations in UK & Ireland to align its Commercial and Specialty businesses.
Current HDI Global Specialty (HGS) UK Branch Managing Director, Richard Taylor has been appointed to lead the operation in a new role as UK and Ireland Chief Executive Officer, overseeing both HDI Global (HDIG) and HGS businesses.
At the same time, Taylor will also retain his position as a Member of HGS’ Executive Board.
In addition, Stephanie Ogden and Rafael Rebitzky will support Taylor within his new role.
Ogden has been appointed Managing Director, HDIG UK & Ireland, having previously held the position, Director of Underwriting and Distribution.
Moreover, Rebitzky has been appointed Managing Director, HGS, UK, having previously held the position of Underwriting Director for Specialty Lines.
The alignment and appointments within HDI’s businesses in the UK and Ireland coincide with HDIG acquiring Hannover Re 49.8% stake in HGS back in January to become the 100% shareholder, together with the appointment of Claire McDonald to the HDIG Management Board to the lead the Property, Marine Cargo and Engineering and Construction lines of business.
In a press release, it states that these changes are primarily designed to deliver products and services more effectively, putting broker partners and clients at the forefront of the proposition.
Furthermore, the existing governance structures for both HDIG and HGS will remain, and all changes are subject to regulatory approval.
Taylor, commented: “Since its inception in January 2019, HDI Global Specialty has been one of the most significant and profitable growth engines across the HDI Group and I’m very proud of the team’s achievements over this relatively short period of time.
“The HDI Global UK and Irish business has gone from strength to strength and I thank Claire for leaving this business in such great shape. Together with Stephanie and Rafael we have a deep insight and knowledge of the business, and we look forward to taking HDI Global and HDI Global Specialty to the next level in the UK and Irish markets.”
Ogden, added: “Realigning our combined operations under a common leadership structure will drive efficiencies in the way we do business and will bring the best for our HDI partners and clients. Whilst these changes may streamline some of our functions, as we already operate a lean operation, any changes will be made where it makes sense and supports our growth initiatives over the coming years.”
Rebitzky, also commented: “HDI Global Specialty has been very successful since 2019 by investing and significantly expanding into London Specialty insurance. On the basis of strong lead market teams and our long term commitment to the London Market, our clients, brokers and managing agents should benefit from a more cohesive business proposition across HDI Global and HDI Global Specialty.”
