Hong Kong domiciled global reinsurance company, Peak Re, has hired Victor Kuk from Swiss Re to serve as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), taking over from Co-founder Franz-Josef Hahn, who transitions to Special Advisor after leading the firm for more than a decade.
Subject to regulatory approval, Kuk will lead Peak Re as CEO from April 20th, 2026. He takes the helm as the reinsurer embarks on its next phase of growth across Asia-Pacific and global markets.
Kuk brings more than 20 years of leadership experience across Asia to Peak Re. He joins from Swiss Re, one of the world’s largest reinsurance companies, where he served as CEO of Swiss Re Asia Pte. Ltd., and as Head of P&C Reinsurance Market Unit.
Earlier in his career, Kuk held senior roles including CEO for AXA Asia General Insurance, and Chief Risk Officer for QBE Asia Pacific and Latin America.
As Hahn steps down from the CEO role, he will take on the position of Special Advisor, providing strategic oversight until October 9th, 2026.
“On behalf of the Board, we sincerely thank Franz for his visionary leadership and dedication that have been central to Peak Re’s success in becoming a globally respected reinsurer. We warmly welcome Mr. Victor Kuk as CEO; his exceptional leadership and experience will guide the company into its next chapter, accelerating profitable growth and global diversification,” said Vincent Li, Chairman of the Board of Peak Re.
Bing Gu, Managing Director at KKR, commented: “We are grateful for Franz’s leadership in building Peak Re into a differentiated global reinsurer with a strong presence across high-growth markets. We are pleased to welcome Victor, with his proven leadership and track record across Asia, as Peak Re’s new leader and look forward to working closely with him and the management team to support Peak Re’s continued growth and success.”
Hahn added: “I am very grateful to our clients, partners, dedicated colleagues and shareholders for their unwavering trust and long-term support over the past decade. Building Peak Re has been the most rewarding chapter of my career, and I am proud of the resilient platform and team we have created together. I wish Victor and our talented team every success as they build on this foundation and propel Peak Re towards delivering even greater value in the years ahead.”
Incoming CEO, Kuk, said: “I am honoured to lead Peak Re at such a pivotal time and am grateful for the trust placed in me by the Board. As the industry navigates evolving market dynamics, climate-related risks, shifting economic conditions, and rapid technological advancements, I look forward to working with the talented team to strengthen our client partnerships and capture new opportunities across key markets globally.
“Franz’s pioneering spirit has set an unparalleled standard. Together with the team, I will advance our strategic priorities, foster innovation, and ensure sustained, profitable growth for our stakeholders worldwide.”
