Brit CEO Wilson on Leave of Absence for Health Reasons; Thompson Named Interim CEO

Brit Ltd., the London-based insurer and subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings, announced that Matthew Wilson, group CEO, will be taking an indefinite leave of absence due to health reasons. During this period, Martin Thompson will step in as interim group CEO, subject to regulatory approval.

“The whole of Brit wishes Matthew well, and look forward to his return,” said the company in a statement.

Matthew Wilson

Thompson is a highly experienced leader in the insurance sector, including senior executive roles running commercial and specialty lines operations across the UK, Canada and Scandinavia. Prior to joining Fairfax as an executive officer in September 2021, he was president & CEO of RSA Canada. Thompson was with RSA for over 20 years, having started his career with them in 1997.

He is chair of the Insurance Institute of Canada and an associate of the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII). Thompson is a graduate of the University of Glasgow.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Matthew Wilson and his family as he begins a program to fully regain his health. He has our full support during this challenging time, and we look forward to his return,” commented Prem Watsa, Fairfax Financial Holdings chairman and CEO.

“In the meantime, we are fortunate to have Martin Thompson available to step into the role of CEO of Brit. Martin brings ample senior executive experience, most recently having served as CEO of RSA Canada. His interim appointment will minimize disruption to Brit and its related operations during Matthew’s absence,” added Watsa.

A global specialty insurer and reinsurer, Brit is focused on underwriting complex risks. It has a major presence in Lloyd’s of London. Brit underwrites a broad class of commercial specialty insurance with a strong focus on property/casualty and energy business.