WTW announces leadership change in Australia and New Zealand to foster continued growth

Rhea-AI Summary

WTW (NASDAQ: WTW) has appointed James Baum as the new Head of Australia and New Zealand, as well as Head of Corporate Risk & Broking (CRB) for the region, effective 15 July 2024. Baum brings over 30 years of experience, having previously held senior roles at Aon, including Global Head of Wholesale & Specialty Broking. He succeeds Simon Weaver, who will continue as Head of Asia Pacific and Head of CRB for Asia Pacific. The leadership change aims to leverage Baum's extensive knowledge to sustain and accelerate WTW's growth in Australasia. Pamela Thomson-Hall, WTW Head of International, expressed confidence in Baum's ability to further WTW's market position.

Positive

• James Baum's appointment as Head of Australia and New Zealand along with CRB positions effective 15 July 2024.
• Baum's extensive 30-year experience in the industry, including roles at Aon and Marsh.
• WTW's strategic ambition to leverage Baum's expertise to enhance growth in the Australasian market.
• Continued leadership by Simon Weaver in Asia Pacific, maintaining regional stability.

Negative

• None.

James Baum is appointed as Head of Australia and New Zealand and Head of Corporate Risk & Broking Australia and New Zealand

SYDNEY, July 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- WTW (NASDAQ: WTW), a leading global advisory, broking, and solutions company, today announced the appointment of James Baum as WTW Head of Australia and New Zealand, and Head of Corporate Risk & Broking (CRB) Australia and New Zealand, effective 15 July. Simon Weaver will continue to serve as WTW Head of Asia Pacific and Head of CRB for Asia Pacific.

Pamela Thomson-Hall, WTW Head of International and Head of Risk & Broking International, commented, “I am delighted to have someone of James’s calibre join WTW. This appointment speaks to the company’s ability to attract market-leading talent. James is a seasoned leader with over 30 years of experience and has a proven track record of supporting growth and managing business operations. We've made tremendous progress and built great foundations for growth in Australasia in recent years, thanks to Simon Weaver, and now with James’s leadership, we are poised to take this to the next level.” 

Speaking about his appointment, James said, “I am excited to be joining WTW at a time of significant growth and opportunity in Australasia. WTW is well positioned to compete in the market – the company is winning new business and bringing the best solutions and talent to serve the people, risk and capital needs of clients. With its strong global brand, client-first passion and ambition to grow, I am looking forward to being part of this next phase and seeing WTW in Australasia realise its full potential for our clients and colleagues alike.” 

Commenting on the appointment, Simon added, “Our value proposition around risk and specialisms is gaining significant traction with clients across Australasia, which is a testament to the quality of our people. With James’ deep knowledge and experience in the region, I am confident that he will supercharge our growth and fulfill our ambition to build a sustainable and thriving business for the benefit of our clients and colleagues.”

Very well-known and respected in the industry and the markets in which he has worked, James was most recently with Aon. During his 18-year tenure at the company, James held various leadership roles, including Global Head of Wholesale & Specialty Broking, CEO of Australia and Chief Broking Officer for the Pacific region. Prior to Aon, James spent over 12 years at Marsh and Sedgwick. 

About WTW

At WTW (NASDAQ: WTW), we provide data-driven, insight-led solutions in the areas of people, risk and capital. Leveraging the global view and local expertise of our colleagues serving 140 countries and markets, we help organizations sharpen their strategy, enhance organizational resilience, motivate their workforce and maximize performance.

Working shoulder to shoulder with our clients, we uncover opportunities for sustainable success—and provide perspective that moves you.

Learn more at wtwco.com.

Media contact

Clara Goh: +65 6958 2542
clara.goh@wtwco.com

FAQ

Who is the new Head of WTW Australia and New Zealand?

James Baum has been appointed as the new Head of WTW Australia and New Zealand, effective 15 July 2024.

When is James Baum's appointment as Head of WTW Australia and New Zealand effective?

James Baum's appointment is effective on 15 July 2024.

What roles will James Baum hold at WTW?

James Baum will serve as the Head of Australia and New Zealand and the Head of Corporate Risk & Broking for the region.

What experience does James Baum bring to WTW?

James Baum has over 30 years of industry experience, previously holding senior roles at Aon and Marsh.

How will James Baum's appointment impact WTW's growth?

James Baum's extensive experience is expected to sustain and accelerate WTW's growth in the Australasian market.