Several insurance and financial services companies have announced leadership appointments, indicating continued board and executive transitions across the sector.
Aegon said David Herzog (pictured top, left) will become chairman of its board of directors on November 13, 2025, following approval at the 2025 Annual General Meeting. He will take over from William Connelly, who will retire on the same date.
The company will also propose Leni Boeren as a new board member at its 2026 AGM. Boeren previously served as CEO of Kempen Capital Management and Robeco Groep and has held non-executive roles at several European firms.
Connelly said, “I am delighted that the board will propose Leni Boeren as its new member. Leni has a deep understanding of the financial services and corporate sectors, and extensive experience in transforming companies. She is well placed to contribute to Aegon’s Board and support the execution of the company’s strategy.”
Herzog said he looks forward to working with the board and CEO Lard Friese, acknowledging Connelly’s leadership and contribution to Aegon’s progress.
Iprism, one of the UK’s independently owned managing general agents, confirmed Adrian Saunders (pictured top, centre) as non-executive chairman. He joined the board in April 2024 and has previously held senior roles at Ecclesiastical Insurance Group, Marsh, Zurich Financial Services and Hiscox.
CEO Ian Lloyd said the appointment “represents our growing maturity as a management-owned business.” Saunders said he is pleased to take on the role and will focus on supporting the firm’s governance and strategic oversight.
Financial services consultancy Broadstone has appointed Karen Graves (pictured top, right) as non-executive director, effective November 1, 2025. Graves has more than 30 years of experience in the Lloyd’s and London markets and currently serves on the boards of USAA SA, Allied World Managing Agency, and Accelerant UK.
CEO Tony Gusmao said Graves’ appointment aligns with Broadstone’s goal to advance within the UK insurance segment. Graves said she looks forward to contributing her experience to help the firm develop its market proposition.
Specialty MGA Fiducia has appointed Graeme McFarlane (pictured immediately above) as development underwriter for Scotland and the northeast of England. McFarlane joins from Santander, bringing more than three decades of marine insurance experience.
CEO Gerry Sheehy said McFarlane’s appointment will enable Fiducia to provide brokers in these regions with expert underwriting support and tailored coverage options.
Gallagher has announced David Rush as independent non-executive director of Arthur J Gallagher Holdings (UK) Ltd. Rush, a former Deloitte partner with nearly 40 years in financial services, will chair the audit committee, subject to regulatory approval.
Rush said, “Gallagher’s presence in the UK has gone from strength to strength over recent years and I am looking forward to playing a part in its continued growth.” CEO Michael Rea said Rush’s appointment brings additional external insight to the board following the AssuredPartners acquisition.
Group chief underwriting officer Ian Houston said, “His extensive underwriting knowledge and expertise will be invaluable as we continue to further strengthen and expand our London underwriting operations.”
How do you see these leadership appointments shaping priorities across the UK and global insurance markets in 2026?
