BMS Group (BMS), the independent specialist insurance and reinsurance broker, today announces the appointment of Richard Dudley as Group Chief Broking Officer. Based in London, Dudley will report to BMS Group’s CEO, Nick Cook.
Dudley joins BMS with over 30 years of industry experience, including two decades in leadership roles. He most recently held the position of Global Head of Climate Strategy at Aon and has previously served as CEO of Aon’s Commercial Risk Wholesale and Specialty Broking operations in London. His reinsurance experience and leadership were instrumental in successfully integrating and growing Aon’s UK & Ireland and Benelux businesses following Aon’s acquisition of Benfield in 2008.
Dudley will support the continued build-out of the London and Bermuda reinsurance platform, leveraging his extensive network across both markets. His expertise in managing large, integrated specialty businesses in London will be invaluable in executing the ambitious growth plans for BMS’s London Specialty business under Ian Gormley's leadership. He will join BMS in December 2024.
A prominent figure in the London market, Dudley is a market veteran and a well-respected leader. He currently serves on the Council of Lloyd’s where his responsibilities include chairing two market transformation committees and is a former Chair of the London & International Insurance Brokers’ Association (LIIBA). His appointment solidifies BMS's position as a leader in the industry, driving investment, growth, and revenue across the Group's key pillars of Specialty and Reinsurance.
This strategic addition to the leadership team follows the recent high-profile hiring of Brad Melvin as BMS Re President and US CEO. Over the past six months, BMS has also welcomed Chris Brook as Chief Operating Officer, Ali Trauttmansdorff as Chief People Officer, Charlie Rozes as Group CFO, and Farah Nelson as US CFO. These key appointments align with BMS’s recent growth trajectory and reflect its dedication to driving continued success through exceptional leadership.
Nick Cook, CEO, BMS Group, commented: “Richard brings an impressive wealth of experience and will play a key role in supporting BMS as it continues to grow. His vast expertise in both Specialty and Reinsurance, along with his relationships and history of working with colleagues, insurers, regulators, and clients across the globe, will be instrumental as BMS expands its international footprint.”
Richard Dudley added: "I look forward to joining this dynamic broker and contributing to this pivotal period of change and growth. As BMS continues its fast-paced development, I am eager to help the teams identify exciting new opportunities and solidify the Group’s market position.”