BMS, the independent specialist insurance and reinsurance broker, has announced the appointment of Robert Mercier as Chief Operating Officer (COO) of its US business.
He joins from Willis Re, where he has spent 15 years across several senior positions, most recently as Operations Director.
Prior to joining Willis Re, Mercier was the Global Underwriting Operations Leader at GE Insurance Solutions for five years, developing property and casualty reinsurance products, services, and systems.
He has more than 20 years’ experience in managing reinsurance operations in North America and globally, and his background includes underwriting, client services, and sales experience in reinsurance and specialty insurance markets, having previously worked at Converium (now Zurich Re) and Marsh & McLennan.
In his new role, which commences on February 25th, Mercier will be based in BMS’s Philadelphia office and report to Pete Chandler, CEO and President of the company’s US arm.
“BMS’s reinsurance revenues have now topped $100mn; continued investment in talent at all levels, including leadership, brokerage, analytical and actuarial is absolutely planned for 2021 and beyond,” said Chandler.
“Our reinsurance team has grown significantly over the past two years, as we continue to attract market-leading talent, are constantly challenging the status quo and developing new reinsurance products for our clients and prospects. To accelerate our growth momentum in 2021, we continue to invest heavily in talent and technology, with a particular focus on all things digital, analytics and data,” he continued.
“With Bob’s outstanding experience in executing core operational and growth strategies, he will contribute greatly to the continued build-out of our capabilities. His appointment is a crucial step in our long-term expansion strategy, and I am very pleased to welcome Bob to our team.”
Mercier also commented: “BMS is deeply committed to fuelling significant, persistent growth and profitability. With a vision and strategy informed by insight and understanding of key market sectors, and underpinned by outstanding 2020 accomplishments and continuing investments, BMS is uniquely positioned for robust, sustained expansion in a dynamic and changing marketplace.”
“BMS’s exceptional leadership team, broadening talent base, and diverse partnerships provide a strong foundation for our continued success as the emerging independent broker of choice. It is a very exciting, opportune time to join BMS and I look forward to working closely with Pete and the team.”
