New Willis boss to focus on placement database

Willis’ chief executive in waiting Dominic Casserley has some big challenges ahead of him when he steps into Joe Plumeri’s shoes at the start of next year.

Among them are ensuring that Willis’s placement database MarketMatch keeps pace with rivals Aon’s Global Risk Insight Platform and Marsh’s MarketConnect, say analysts.

Stifel Nicolaus managing director Meyer Shields said that his key targets will include delivering long-term sustainable growth and ensuring the firm builds a stronger relationship with its investors.

“The board has implicitly acknowledged there are some problems, but it is also saying that this is the right step in terms of a solution,” he said.

For more, read our analysis: Life after Plumeri: how will Willis change under a new chief executive?