Current CEO Brad Irick will succeed Chris Williams as Co-Head of International Business for Tokio Marine Group from 1 April, as Williams steps into the role of Chairman for Tokio Marine Holdings’ International business.

Leading specialty insurer Tokio Marine Kiln today announces the appointment of Matthew Shaw as CEO with effect from 1 April, subject to regulatory approval. Matthew will succeed Brad Irick who is taking up the position of Co-Head of International Business for Tokio Marine Holdings Inc., which is the parent company of Tokio Marine Group, to drive its international growth ambitions. 

Shaw has been Chief Underwriting Officer of Tokio Marine Kiln since 2020. An accomplished and experienced leader with four decades of experience in the insurance industry, he has been the architect behind a transformational underwriting strategy that has led to significant performance improvements for the company in the last four years.

Irick has led Tokio Marine Kiln (TMK) since 1 January 2020 under a strategy that puts people, culture and performance at the centre of its success, which has seen it achieving consistent profitability as one of the largest and highest performing insurers at Lloyd’s. In September 2023, TMK was named Carrier of the Year at an industry awards ceremony.

With these changes, TMK Chief Risk Officer Vivek Syal will be appointed to the role of Chief Underwriting Officer effective 1 April, subject to regulatory approval. Syal joined TMK in 2017 and has played an instrumental role in developing and leading the vision and strategic direction of the business. He has built a strong reputation across the London and Lloyd’s Market, as well as across the Tokio Marine Group where he holds various roles.

Chris Williams, Chairman of Tokio Marine Kiln Group Limited, said: “Brad, Matthew, and the executive team have done a tremendous job of leading Tokio Marine Kiln and executing on a strategy that has consistently delivered outstanding results. I have every confidence that its success will continue to strengthen under Matthew’s leadership, and with the support of the whole business.

“Brad and I have worked together for many years, and I couldn’t be more pleased to see him succeed me as I take on the role of Chairman of Tokio Marine Holdings’ International Business.  He is a proven leader and I know he will be instrumental in helping Tokio Marine chart the course of the international business into the future.”

Shaw said: “I’m delighted to be taking up the role as CEO during one of the most pivotal times for our industry. Our clients are facing a new generation of risk and volatility, with novel technology and approaches challenging the status quo and presenting exciting opportunities. Building on our proven strategy and the experience and expertise we’ve gained from 60 years in business, the next phase for TMK is about focusing on our future vision, creating opportunities and embracing new ways of solving old problems. Vivek is a forward-thinking and exceptional leader whose solid experience in our industry and unique perspective will enable him to propel our underwriting strategy forward and ensure our continued success.”

Irick said: “It has been an honour to lead Tokio Marine Kiln for the past four years. TMK’s success lies in the strength and commitment of our people, who have individually and collectively inspired, challenged and motivated me every day to ensure TMK is a business that can perform and benefit our customers, our people and society in any business environment.

“Our people and culture-focused strategy has proven to be a winning formula, and I’m confident that TMK will continue to go from strength to strength under Matthew’s leadership.”