Industry veteran and former WTW CEO resurfaces at US PE firm

Former  Willis Towers Watson CEO John Haley has joined a Boston-based private equity firm as an executive partner in the firm’s financial technology and services investment group. He led the global broker through its IPO in 2000 and three mergers that helped triple its size.

Haley has joined Thomas H. Lee Partners (THL), a PE firm investing in middle-market growth companies. He has also been appointed to the board of THL portfolio company AmeriLife Group, a provider of life, health, annuities and retirement planning solutions.

Haley said he was “immediately drawn to the collegial nature” of the team at THL. “They work with not only each other, but also their portfolio companies,” he said. “It’s easy to see how this impressive team has established such meaningful relationships with insurance technology, services, and distribution firms, as well as fintech companies more broadly. I especially look forward to partnering with AmeriLife and THL’s other portfolio companies.”

Haley retired from WTW in January 2022 after serving as CEO and member of the board of directors, leading the company through its IPO in 2000 and three mergers that helped triple its size.

In his new role, Haley will support THL’s efforts in identifying, sourcing, and growing investment opportunities in the financial technology and services sector. He will also support portfolio company management teams in creating sustainable, long-term value. In joining AmeriLife’s board, Haley will advise the company on its continued growth and operations.

Ganesh Rao, managing director at THL and head of Financial Technology and Services, said: “With over 40 years of industry experience, John is very well-positioned to advise our portfolio companies that offer insurance and adjacent technology and services. He joins at just the right moment, as our partner companies work to transform and modernize the insurance industry.”

AmeriLife chairman and CEO Scott Perry added: “I’m thrilled that John will be joining the board and believe his experience will greatly benefit AmeriLife, its growing distribution network and our affiliated agents and advisors.”

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