Willis Group has opened an office in Cape Town, South Africa, as part of its drive to expand overseas.

It has also recruited two senior executives to help establish its presence in the area.

In April, chairman Joe Plumeri said he planned to oversee the company's global growth. He outlined the US as a particular area of interest, but said there were few countries left to target.

Chris Nivison, who joins the group on September 1, will head up the new division. Nivison previously worked as a senior executive for a South African brokerage.

He will be supported by Cheryl Donald, who joined the group last month. She has a strong background n the marine sector, and formerly worked for Neptune Risk Management (Cape).

The 2025 Insurance Times Awards took place on the evening of Wednesday 3rd December in the iconic Great Room of London’s Grosvenor House.

Hosted by comedian and actor Tom Allen, 34 Gold, 23 Silver and 22 Bronze awards were handed out across an amazing 34 categories recognising brilliance and innovation right across the breadth of UK general insurance.
Many congratulations to all the worthy winners and as always, huge thanks to our sponsors for their support and our judges for their expertise.