John Neal Appointed Aon Global Chairman Of Climate Solutions

Aon has announced the appointment of John Neal as the new Global Chairman of Climate Solutions and Global CEO of Reinsurance, effective immediately after his notice period. The appointment is crucial for Aon in strengthening its climate strategy and expanding its reinsurance solutions amid growing challenges due to climate change and increasing market demands.

Neal will focus on the growing risks of climate change while enhancing Aon's reinsurance offerings. As a seasoned leader, his expertise is seen as pivotal in addressing complex and evolving global risks, from climate change to geopolitical volatility. He will report to Andy Marcell, CEO of Risk Capital for Aon, and be based in London, serving as a crucial member of Aon's Risk Capital leadership team.

Aon CEO Greg Case welcomed Neal's appointment, praising his record of investment in technology and talent that positioned the insurance industry for greater impact and growth. "John's leadership will advance our 3×3 Plan, unlocking integrated climate solutions and setting us apart in addressing client needs across risk and people issues," said Case. This vision fits well with Aon's work in offering complete and sustainable risk solutions for clients worldwide.

Perhaps as a result of his distinguished career at Lloyd's of London as group CEO, Neal stands apart for this particular role. During his tenure as Lloyd's group CEO, Neal led the organization through a turnaround, positioning it for long-term growth and ensuring the financial stability of the business. Neal's leadership played an instrumental role in producing industry-leading performance at Lloyd's, a company with a 340-year history. Andy Marcell was effusive about Neal's expertise navigating megatrends in trade, technology, weather, and workforce; those are exactly the areas Aon's clients will need its companies to keep pace with the shifting needs.

Reflecting on his decision to join Aon, Neal shared his excitement about addressing global challenges, particularly in the climate transition. “I’m excited to join Aon to drive smart reinsurance solutions that tackle pressing global challenges, particularly in the climate transition,” he said. Neal’s appointment signals Aon’s commitment to expanding its Risk Capital capabilities and providing innovative solutions to help clients navigate complex risk landscapes.

Previously to Lloyd's, Neal was the Group CEO of QBE, who has $14 billion gross written premium businesses with operations across 37 countries. His tenures at QBE and at Ensign – a leading UK specialist commercial motor underwriter who led the management buyout for the business- further demonstrate Neal's ability to scale businesses successfully in the insurance sector. Neal was also the youngest active underwriter at Lloyd's early in his career.

With Neal at the helm, Aon is well-positioned to continue its momentum as a world leader in professional services, reinforcing its commitment to addressing climate risks and providing integrated reinsurance solutions. His appointment not only reaffirms Aon's position within the industry but also underscores the strategic focus of the company on innovation and sustainability in response to an increasingly complex risk landscape for businesses around the world.