John Hastings-Bass will also chair the BMS Risk and Compliance committee

John Hastings-Bass

Arthur J Gallagher former chairman of international development John Hastings-Bass has been appointed as non-executive chairman of BMS.

In his new role he will also chair the BMS Risk and Compliance committee.

He replaces Christopher Hopton who remains as chairman of Minova Insurance Holdings, which owns BMS Group.

BMS Group chief executive Nick Cook said: “John’s appointment to lead our board is another exciting development for BMS. He brings with him extensive industry knowledge, an unmatched level of global market insight and a track record of providing strategic counsel to growing businesses.

“I look forward to working with him as we make headway into 2015 and have no doubt that he will be instrumental and invaluable in our ongoing strategic planning and development.

“Everyone at BMS joins me in thanking Christopher Hopton for his support and wise counsel during a period of considerable development for BMS.”

Commenting on his appointment, John Hastings-Bass added: “Nick and the BMS team have a clear strategy to take advantage of the significant opportunities in the market place.

“With the support of our shareholder, Minova Insurance Holdings, we have the financial resources to continue to strengthen BMS in our chosen markets.”

Hastings-Bass retired from his role as international chairman at Gallagher at the end of 2014. He was previously the managing director of underwriting and distribution, chairman of Asia Pacific and of Gallagher’s international energy business, Alesco.

He joined Gallagher from JLT in 2007, where he was chief executive of its international business division covering Asia Pacific, continental Europe, Canada and Latin America.

Prior to that, he was the group board director, and chief executive of JLT’s international business group.

Hastings-Bass remains non-Executive chairman of Lloyd’s insurer Novae.

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