Willis Appoints Harding CEO – Captive Practice in Europe

Willis Group Holdings has appointed Lesley Harding as CEO of the Willis Global Captive Practice in Europe, effective March 1. She reports to Malcolm Cutts-Watson, Chairman of the Willis Global Captive Practice – Europe, and will lead the European captive management and advisory team.

Harding joined Willis in 2003. She most recently served as a Client Advocate with Willis’ Global Solutions team focused on developing and managing relationships with a number of Willis’ global clients – particularly in the Energy industry.

Prior to joining Willis Harding was an underwriter at Swiss Re and helped to set up Arch’s European operations. She was also a risk manager at Texaco’s wholly owned subsidiary Heddington Insurance Limited.

“We see great potential in Europe for the growth of captives,” said Cutts-Watson. “This is because organizations are seeking to reduce their dependence on the commercial insurance market and increasingly looking at alternative means of funding risks. A captive provides a structured approach to the management of retained risk, generating financial savings and operational benefits.”

Commenting on Harding’s appointment, Cutts-Watson added that it “strengthens the leadership team and helps us better respond to untapped opportunities in the captive market. Her recent experience will facilitate enhanced connectivity within Willis and greater understanding of how captive services and solutions add value to our clients’ businesses. Her extensive knowledge of risk financing strategies and the demands of global companies make her the ideal candidate.”

Harding said that she is “delighted to join the Willis Global Captive Practice,” adding that she has “worked with many of the team and admire their technical expertise and focus on client service. I see my role as building on this solid platform to achieve even greater success.”

Source: Willis Group Holdings plc

Topics Europe