Munich Re Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Munich Re has 10 executives leading key functions including finance, operations, information technology, and regional leadership.

Driven by deep expertise, Munich Re transforms risks into opportunities, offering innovative financial protection and risk solutions globally through its reinsurance, ERGO, and investment segments.

Leadership Roles at Munich Re

  • Chief Executive Officer, P & C, Greater (China) - Serene Chan
  • Chief Executive Officer (Brazil) - Karsten Steinmetz
  • Chief Executive Officer (Life and Health) - Australasia, Japan, Korea, South Africa - David Hughes
  • President & Chief Executive Officer, HSB (Canada) - Barbara Bellissimo
  • Chief Financial Officer - Nao Ohniwa
  • Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Christopher Piper
  • Chief Operating Officer - Chad Schlippert
  • Chief Information Officer - James Gouin
  • Global Chief Marketing Officer - Daniel Cenzano
  • Global Chief Information Officer, Head of Service Management (APAC) - Richard Fothergill
  • Serene Chan - Chief Executive Officer, P & C, Greater (China)

    Serene Chan, the Chief Executive Officer, P & C, Greater (China) at Munich Re, directs the Property and Casualty business operations within the significant Greater China region. This executive leadership position involves developing and executing strategies tailored to the unique market dynamics of China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. Chan's mandate includes expanding Munich Re's P&C offerings, fostering strong client relationships, and ensuring profitable growth in this key international market. The Chief Executive Officer, P & C, Greater (China) is responsible for navigating regulatory landscapes and capitalizing on emerging opportunities within the region's insurance sector. Serene Chan's leadership is pivotal in adapting Munich Re's global expertise to meet local demands and drive success in one of the world's most dynamic economic zones.

    Karsten Steinmetz - Chief Executive Officer (Brazil)

    Karsten Steinmetz, the Chief Executive Officer (Brazil) at Munich Re, leads the company's strategic direction and operational execution within the vital Brazilian market. This executive role involves overseeing all aspects of Munich Re's business in Brazil, including reinsurance, primary insurance, and risk solutions tailored to local needs. Steinmetz's responsibilities encompass driving market penetration, managing client portfolios, and ensuring compliance with regional regulations. The Chief Executive Officer (Brazil) plays a crucial part in adapting Munich Re's global expertise to address the specific risks and opportunities present in South America's largest economy. Karsten Steinmetz's leadership is instrumental in solidifying Munich Re's position and expanding its impact within Brazil's evolving insurance landscape.

    David Hughes - Chief Executive Officer (Life and Health) - Australasia, Japan, Korea, South Africa

    David Hughes, the Chief Executive Officer (Life and Health) - Australasia, Japan, Korea, South Africa at Munich Re, directs the company's Life and Health insurance business across multiple key international markets. This executive leadership role involves developing and implementing strategies to expand market share, enhance product offerings, and drive profitability in diverse regions including Australasia, Japan, Korea, and South Africa. Hughes's responsibilities encompass managing complex operational landscapes, fostering strong client relationships, and adapting Munich Re's global expertise to meet specific regional demands. The Chief Executive Officer (Life and Health) is critical for navigating regulatory environments and capitalizing on growth opportunities within these vital territories. David Hughes's strategic oversight ensures Munich Re's continued success in providing innovative risk solutions for life and health clients globally.

    Barbara Bellissimo - President & Chief Executive Officer, HSB (Canada)

    Barbara Bellissimo, the President & Chief Executive Officer, HSB (Canada) at Munich Re, leads the Hartford Steam Boiler (HSB) operations within the Canadian market. This executive position involves driving the strategic vision and operational execution for HSB Canada, focusing on specialized insurance and risk management solutions. Bellissimo's responsibilities include expanding HSB's presence, cultivating client partnerships, and ensuring the delivery of innovative services tailored to the Canadian industrial and commercial sectors. The President & Chief Executive Officer, HSB (Canada) plays a vital role in adapting HSB's global expertise to local market conditions and regulatory frameworks. Barbara Bellissimo's leadership is instrumental in positioning HSB (Canada) as a trusted provider of specialized risk solutions, turning complex challenges into opportunities for clients across the nation.
    Barbara Bellissimo

    Nao Ohniwa - Chief Financial Officer

    Nao Ohniwa, the Chief Financial Officer at Munich Re, directs the company's global financial strategy and fiscal operations. This leadership role involves managing all aspects of financial planning, reporting, and investment management, ensuring robust capital allocation and profitability across Munich Re's diverse business segments. Ohniwa's oversight extends to optimizing financial performance and maintaining strong relationships with investors and financial institutions. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include driving financial discipline and supporting strategic growth initiatives through sound fiscal management. This position is critical for navigating complex global financial markets and ensuring the long-term economic stability of the organization. Nao Ohniwa's expertise is vital for turning market risks into tangible financial opportunities for Munich Re.

    Christopher Piper - Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Christopher Piper, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Munich Re, holds a pivotal financial leadership role within the organization. This executive position involves significant responsibility for financial planning, analysis, and reporting, contributing to the overall fiscal health and strategic decision-making of Munich Re. Piper's duties extend to managing financial operations, ensuring compliance, and supporting the company's growth objectives through sound financial management. The Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer works closely with other senior leaders to optimize resource allocation and drive profitability. Christopher Piper's financial acumen is essential for navigating the complexities of the global insurance and reinsurance markets, turning potential risks into strategic financial advantages.
    Christopher Piper

    Chad Schlippert - Chief Operating Officer

    Chad Schlippert, the Chief Operating Officer at Munich Re, oversees the operational efficiency and effectiveness of the company's global business processes. This executive function involves optimizing workflows, managing resources, and implementing strategic initiatives to enhance service delivery and operational scalability. Schlippert's focus is on streamlining operations across reinsurance, primary insurance, and risk solutions, ensuring seamless integration and high performance. The Chief Operating Officer drives continuous improvement efforts, leveraging digital transformation to achieve greater agility and customer satisfaction. This role is essential for translating Munich Re's risk assessment expertise into practical, customer-focused solutions. Chad Schlippert's leadership ensures that the company's operational framework supports its mission of turning risks into opportunities worldwide.

    James Gouin - Chief Information Officer

    James Gouin, the Chief Information Officer at Munich Re, architects the company's technology strategy and digital infrastructure. This critical role involves leading the development and implementation of innovative IT solutions that support Munich Re's global operations and strategic objectives. Gouin's responsibilities encompass cybersecurity, data management, and the advancement of digital transformation initiatives across all business units. The Chief Information Officer ensures that technology investments align with business needs, driving efficiency and enabling new service offerings. This leadership position is fundamental to Munich Re's ability to combine deep knowledge with cutting-edge digital capabilities. James Gouin's vision guides the technological evolution necessary to turn complex risks into manageable opportunities for clients worldwide.

    Daniel Cenzano - Global Chief Marketing Officer

    Daniel Cenzano, the Global Chief Marketing Officer at Munich Re, shapes and directs the company's worldwide marketing and brand strategy. This executive function involves defining Munich Re's market positioning, driving brand awareness, and developing integrated marketing campaigns that resonate with diverse global audiences. Cenzano's responsibilities include overseeing market research, digital marketing initiatives, and corporate communications to effectively convey the company's value proposition. The Global Chief Marketing Officer ensures that marketing efforts align with business objectives, supporting growth and client engagement across all segments. Daniel Cenzano's strategic vision is key to communicating Munich Re's expertise in risk solutions and its commitment to turning risks into opportunities on a global scale.

    Richard Fothergill - Global Chief Information Officer, Head of Service Management (APAC)

    Richard Fothergill, the Global Chief Information Officer, Head of Service Management (APAC) at Munich Re, leads technology strategy and service management across the Asia-Pacific region. This dual executive role involves overseeing the implementation of IT infrastructure and ensuring high-quality service delivery to support Munich Re's operations in APAC. Fothergill's responsibilities include managing IT operations, driving digital transformation initiatives, and enhancing service management frameworks to meet evolving business needs. The Global Chief Information Officer, Head of Service Management (APAC) plays a crucial part in leveraging technology to optimize performance and client satisfaction within this dynamic geographical area. Richard Fothergill's leadership ensures that technology effectively supports Munich Re's mission of turning risks into opportunities throughout the Asia-Pacific market.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Munich Re Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Munich Re?
    Munich Re is led by Serene Chan (Chief Executive Officer, P & C, Greater (China)), along with executives such as Karsten Steinmetz (Chief Executive Officer (Brazil)) and David Hughes (Chief Executive Officer (Life and Health) - Australasia, Japan, Korea, South Africa).
    Who is part of Munich Re’s executive team?
    The executive team of Munich Re includes leaders such as Serene Chan (Chief Executive Officer, P & C, Greater (China)), Karsten Steinmetz (Chief Executive Officer (Brazil)), David Hughes (Chief Executive Officer (Life and Health) - Australasia, Japan, Korea, South Africa) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Munich Re have?
    Munich Re has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Munich Re’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Munich Re includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, P & C, Greater (China), Chief Executive Officer (Brazil), Chief Executive Officer (Life and Health) - Australasia, Japan, Korea, South Africa, President & Chief Executive Officer, HSB (Canada), Chief Financial Officer.