Bermuda domiciled specialty P&C insurer and reinsurer, Sompo International Holdings Ltd., has announced that Julian James is set to join the firm to lead its London market and International Insurance operations.
Following a transition period and subject to regulatory approvals, James will take over as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), London market and International Insurance from Graham Evans, who is set to retire after seven years with the firm and a long career in the insurance sector.
In his new role, James will report to Chris Gallagher, CEO, Sompo International Commercial P&C.
“We are delighted that Julian will be joining our team to lead the strategic expansion of our international insurance business. Sompo International is committed to the continued growth of our London, Bermudan and European businesses, including the recently formed European platform, SI Insurance (Europe), SA, through new products, scale and relevance to these critical markets.
“Julian’s history of developing deep and meaningful relationships with clients while driving profitable growth, successfully managing acquisitions and motivating high performing teams makes him a perfect fit for Sompo International.
“I would like to also thank Graham for his successful contributions to Sompo International and wish him the very best in his retirement,” said Gallagher.
James joins the firm with broad insurance industry experience that spans almost 40 years. He most recently held several leadership roles in the London marketplace, including President of Allied World’s Global Markets, and CEO of the Allied World Managing Agency at Lloyd’s of London. Previously, James served as CEO of Lockton International, a role in which he also served as Chairman of the Board of the International Group and CEO of the UK-regulated entity. He also served on the Council of Lloyd’s until January 2019.
Before this, James started his career in the broking industry at Sedgwick and Marsh in 1981, joining the Lloyd’s marketplace in 1997. Currently, he is a member of the Lloyd’s Market Supervision and Review Committee.
Commenting on his new role, James said: “I am honored to have the opportunity to make an impact on the future of Sompo International. The company’s strategic growth plans, particularly for the London, European and Bermuda markets, and its disciplined approach to underwriting and supporting its clients, make Sompo International a unique and well positioned market-leading organization.
“I am looking forward to joining a team of some of the most highly experienced and well-respected leaders and underwriters in our industry.”
Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors at Sompo International and CEO of Overseas Insurance and Reinsurance Business, Sompo Holdings, John Charman, added: “I have had the privilege and pleasure of knowing Graham Evans both personally and professionally for many years. I would like to give my sincerest thanks to him for his significant contributions not only to our company, but to the London insurance market as well. As he begins his retirement, he should be proud of his accomplishments and the exceptional organization that he has played such a critical role in building for us in the UK and in Europe.
“Finally, I would also like to enthusiastically welcome Julian to our great team and congratulate him on his new position. I look forward to working closely with him as we continue to evolve and expand upon the solid foundations that Graham has successfully laid.”
