HDI Global UK & Ireland has officially named Simon Hunt as its Chief Executive Officer, with the appointment taking effect on 1 June 2026. He had been leading the business in an interim capacity since February 2026, stepping in after the departure of Stephanie Ogden.
Before taking on the interim chief executive role, Hunt served as CFO for the UK & Ireland operation. During the transition period, he helped maintain business momentum while supporting expansion across core segments including Accident & Health, Cyber, Credit Risk, and Energy. His leadership also emphasized underwriting discipline, strong service standards, and durable client and broker relationships.
Leadership Direction and Strategic Focus
Having joined HDI Global in 2019, Hunt has held a number of senior leadership responsibilities and has played a key role in the company’s development. In his permanent position as CEO, he will guide the UK & Ireland business in line with HDI Global’s Xcelerate29 strategy, with a focus on targeted and profitable growth across property, casualty, and specialty insurance lines.
The business will continue to invest in technology and data-led capabilities, while also prioritizing talent attraction, employee retention, and the delivery of high-quality service solutions for brokers and clients. Further emphasis is being placed on excellence throughout the value chain, including enhanced investment in claims and risk engineering to support proactive risk management, faster outcomes, and stronger insights.
Executive Comments on the Appointment
David Hullin, Member of the Executive Board at HDI Global, said that Hunt brings extensive market knowledge, financial strength, and strategic clarity to the role. He noted that Hunt’s interim leadership provided both stability and forward momentum during a demanding market period, and said the appointment reflects confidence in his ability to reinforce HDI Global’s standing as a trusted transformation partner for brokers and clients.
Commenting on his permanent appointment, Hunt said he is proud to take on the role and continue working with teams across the business. He highlighted the company’s underwriting strength, service proposition, and collaborative culture, adding that the focus remains on disciplined profitable growth, consistent support for brokers and clients, and continued investment in people, data, and technology. He also stressed the company’s role in helping partners better understand, transfer, and manage risk in a changing world.
