BGC swoops on Willis global head of broking to lead new aerospace intermediary

BGC Insurance Group (BGCI), a division of global brokerage firm BGC Partners which owns Ed and Besso, has hired Willis' Philip Smaje as chief executive officer (CEO) of its new global aviation and aerospace re/insurance intermediary.

Smaje joins JLT's Marcel Chad as the latest recruit in the newly-launched team headquartered in London.

Smaje will start in his new role on completion of his contractual obligations with Willis Towers Watson where he began his career in 1988 in the aviation division. He went on to hold various senior roles including CEO for Willis Towers Watson’s global aviation practice and was most recently global head of broking.

Andrew Wallin, chief commercial officer of BGC Insurance Group, said: “We have set out to create an entrepreneurial environment that will attract industry leading talent, aligned to innovative technology resulting in a truly differentiated client value proposition.

"This appointment reinforces our commitment to the aerospace sector and I am delighted that Philip is joining us to lead the team. Together he and Marcel will build a potent alternative global proposition for clients.”

Chad added: “Philip and I worked together in our early careers and share common values and philosophies while offering diversity in our competencies, expertise and relationships. I very much look forward to working with him again in this exciting new venture."

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