Sompo names new CRO, head of reinsurance for Sompo Japan

Sompo names new CRO, head of reinsurance for Sompo Japan | Insurance Business Australia

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Sompo names new CRO, head of reinsurance for Sompo Japan

Aligning reinsurance purchasing “a logical first step”

Insurance News

By
Kenneth Araullo

Sompo Holdings has announced a leadership shake-up for its risk and reinsurance activities following the impending retirement of one of its key leaders.

The insurance group has named Koji Takahashi (pictured above) as the new chief risk officer and head of reinsurance for Sompo Japan, the company’s subsidiary. This leadership transition occurs as Emiko Maki, the current chief risk officer and head of reinsurance for Sompo Japan, steps down following her retirement announcement.

Takahashi, who is transitioning from his role as chief risk officer for Sompo in the Asia-Pacific region, has over three decades of experience within the company.

“Aligning our reinsurance purchasing is a logical first step to working more closely with our colleagues in SompoRe. I look forward to Chris Donelan becoming more involved with our reinsurance programs,” Takahashi said.

This change will take effect on April 1, with Takahashi reporting to Koji Ishikawa, president of Sompo Japan, and also to Christopher Donelan, CEO of SompoRe, in his capacity leading reinsurance. SompoRe represents the global reinsurance arm of Sompo Holdings.

Mikio Okumura, the incoming CEO of Sompo Group, underscored the strategic importance of this appointment.

“By creating a stronger link between our two P&C operations with respect to the purchase of reinsurance, we will ensure a globally consistent and coordinated approach to our broker and reinsurance partners, always working to deliver a frictionless experience,” Okumura said. “I wish Takahashi-san and Chris Donelan every success as they embark on their new and expanded responsibilities and am confident in their ability to excel in their respective roles.”

“I thank Maki-san for her contributions to Sompo Japan over the years and wish her all the best in her future endeavors,” Okumura added.

James Shea, CEO of Sompo, also expressed optimism about the new direction that sees the firm moving closer to acting as a global P&C organization.

“Having our Ceded Reinsurance team and Takahashi-san working more closely together under the leadership of Chris Donelan will ensure a more efficient go-to-market approach to our placements, continuing unique and distinct local and regional coverages where needed, but global approach when possible,” Shea said.

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