HDI Global SE announces new UK & Ireland leadership structure

HDI Global and HDI Global Specialty’s UK and Ireland branches will, for the first time, be aligned under a common leadership structure responsible for over £1bn in GWP.

Current HDI Global Specialty UK Branch Managing Director Richard Taylor has been appointed to lead the operation in a new role as UK and Ireland Chief Executive Officer, overseeing both HDI Global (HDIG) and HDI Global Specialty (HGS) businesses. Taylor will also retain his position as Member of the Executive Board (HGS). Stephanie Ogden and Rafael Rebitzky will support Taylor in his new role. Ogden is appointed Managing Director HDIG UK & Ireland having previously held the position Director of Underwriting and Distribution. Rafael Rebitzky is appointed Managing Director of HGS, UK, having previously held the position of Underwriting Director for Specialty Lines.

The alignment and appointments within HDI’s businesses in the UK and Ireland coincide with HDIG acquiring Hannover Re 49.8% stake in HGS back in January to become the 100% shareholder, together with the appointment of Claire McDonald, the previous Managing Director of HDIG UK and Ireland to the HDIG Management Board to lead the Property, Marine Cargo and Engineering and Construction lines of business.

These changes are primarily designed to deliver products and services more effectively, putting broker partners and clients at the forefront of the proposition, but they also create a great platform for staff to develop their careers across both businesses.

Richard Taylor, HDI UK and Ireland CEO said: “Since its inception in January 2019, HDI Global Specialty has been one of the most significant and profitable growth engines across the HDI Group and I’m very proud of the team’s achievements over this relatively short period of time.

“The HDI Global UK and Irish business has gone from strength to strength and I thank Claire for leaving this business in such great shape. Together with Stephanie and Rafael we have a deep insight and knowledge of the business, and we look forward to taking HDI Global and HDI Global Specialty to the next level in the UK and Irish markets.”

Authored by HDI Global SE