HDI Global has appointed Simon Hunt (pictured) as chief executive officer of its UK and Ireland business, confirming him in the role after several months as interim CEO and handing him responsibility for leading the insurer’s next phase of growth under its Xcelerate29 strategy.
The appointment took effect on June 1, 2026. Hunt had been serving as interim chief executive since February following the departure of former CEO Stephanie Ogden. He previously held the position of chief financial officer for the UK and Ireland business and, since joining HDI Global in 2019, has taken on a number of senior leadership roles across the organisation.
The insurer said Hunt’s appointment comes after a period in which the UK and Ireland business continued to grow across several core lines while maintaining discipline in underwriting and service delivery. During his time as interim chief executive, HDI said it delivered growth in areas including accident and health, cyber, credit risk and energy, while also keeping a close focus on operational development and broker and client relationships.
As permanent CEO, Hunt will lead the business in line with HDI Global’s Xcelerate29 strategy, with an emphasis on targeted and profitable growth across property, casualty and specialty lines. The company said the role will also involve continued investment in technology and data-driven capabilities, talent attraction and retention, and the delivery of high-quality service solutions for brokers and clients. HDI added that further investment across the value chain, including claims and risk engineering, would support stronger risk management, quicker resolution and deeper insight for clients and brokers.
David Hullin, member of the executive board at HDI Global, said Hunt had already provided stability and direction in a demanding market. “Simon brings extensive market knowledge, strong financial expertise, and a clear strategic focus to the role,” Hullin said. “As interim CEO, he has provided stability and momentum for the UK & Ireland business in a demanding market environment. His appointment reflects our confidence in his leadership and our commitment to further strengthening HDI Global’s position as a trusted partner in transformation for brokers and clients in this important market.”
Hunt said the business would continue to focus on disciplined execution and long-term investment. “I’m proud and excited to step into the role of CEO permanently and continue working alongside our talented teams across the business,” he said. “Our priorities and focus remain clear: disciplined and profitable growth, consistent delivery for brokers and clients, and investment in our people, data, and technology capabilities.”
HDI also confirmed that Ger Twomey will remain interim chief financial officer.
