MGA Descartes unveils top leadership shake up, US expansion & major hiring spree
Managing general agency (MGA) Descartes Underwriting, which specialises in corporate parametric insurance solutions for climate, cyber, and emerging risks, has signalled a major hiring spree to support its growth targets over the next 12 months.
The Paris-based MGA has reshuffled its top leadership with key appointments, and expanded its US presence with the launch of new offices. The move has also led to the departure of a C-suite executive, who is heading to a broker.
Descartes has opened new branches in Scottsdale, Arizona and Richmond, Virginia. The additions bring Descartes’ global footprint to 16 offices worldwide, including a presence in Europe, Asia, and Oceania.
The parametric specialist said it plans to make hundreds of new hires over the next 12 months in line with its growth targets.
Sébastien Piguet, co-founder and former chief underwriting officer, has been appointed chief insurance officer of Descartes Underwriting. In his new role, Piguet will oversee the business development and underwriting teams. He will leave his position as CEO of Descartes Insurance, the group's insurance company, subject to regulatory approval.
Kevin Dedieu, co-founder and former chief R&D officer, has been appointed chief scientific officer of Descartes Underwriting. He will lead all the company’s technology functions and oversee the implementation of AI functionality in areas such as climate analysis and risk assessment. Additionally, he will become CEO of Descartes Insurance, subject to regulatory approval.
Violaine Raybaud will continue as chief operating officer of Descartes Underwriting, and also become deputy CEO of Descartes Insurance, subject to regulatory approval.
Daniel Vetter, currently head of North America, has been promoted to head of the Americas. He will also oversee operations in Latin America in his new role.
Marie Chabal Filleteau has been appointed chief people officer, effective August 26, 2024. She has over 15 years of experience in developing talent and corporate culture, including four years at Doctolib and more than 10 at BCG.
Eric Allombert has been named interim chief marketing & communication officer. Allombert has more than 25 years of experience in marketing, including four as marketing and sales director at AXA Partners, and five years at Wakam.
Matthew James has been appointed commercial director, UK & Ireland.
Louis Bollaert, previously chief revenue officer, will be leaving the group to take up a management position in the insurance brokerage sector.
Tanguy Touffut (pictured), co-founder and chief executive officer (CEO) of Descartes Underwriting, will remain in his position, responsible for the overall management of operations, finance, strategy, human resources, and marketing & communications.
Touffut said: “Strengthening our presence in the United States is essential for the development of our Group and for consolidating our position as the world leader in parametric insurance. It will enable us to respond more effectively to the local needs of our broker partners, who are confronted with an increasing frequency of climatic and emerging risks.”
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