Ealy promoted to lead two Willis segments

by Richard Kilner

Story link: Ealy promoted to lead two Willis segments

Thomas Ealy, the chief operating officer of Willis North America, has been appointed to lead the firm’s commerical and consumer businesses for both the US and Canada.

Ealy has spent almost six years with the firm, and earlier in his time there led the offices in Chicago and Milwaukee.

Following his appointment, Ealy will move to Chicago.

Ealy will retain the post of chief operating officer until a suitable replacement is found.

The commercial and consumer segments are seen as crucial to the longterm strategic direction of Willis, and to securing profitable growth into the foreseeable future.

The firm has said that Ealy was the natural candidate for the position following his key role in the acquisition last year of InsuranceNoodle™.

The commerical segment will cover small and medium-sized businesses, MGA, public entity risk pools and group captives.

Personal insurance for individuals or families with high net worth and affinity groups will be covered by the consumer segment.

Joe Plumeri, Willis Group’s chairman and chief executive officer, has described Ealy’s new role as central to the firm’s aim to become the first sustainable organic growth company in the industry.