The global insurance and risk management industry is undergoing a strategic reshaping of its leadership landscape as several leading firms announce senior appointments ahead of their 2026 growth and transformation plans. These high-level moves signal continued investment in talent, expertise, and long-term resilience at a time when the sector faces evolving risks, regulatory change, and expanding global markets.
Canopius Group Strengthens US Financial Lines Leadership
Canopius Group has appointed John Tiesi as US Head of Financial Lines, effective 29 October 2025, marking a significant step in the company’s expansion strategy within the American market.
Based in the United States, Tiesi brings more than 25 years of experience in financial and professional liability underwriting, with deep expertise in middle-market financial and commercial sectors.
Before joining Canopius, he spent nearly 16 years at Marsh, most recently as QSG FINPRO National Practice Leader, and earlier held key underwriting positions at Zurich North America.
In his new capacity, Tiesi will oversee Canopius’ Financial Lines portfolio, focusing on shaping underwriting strategies, expanding product offerings, and strengthening client-centric solutions.
Commenting on the appointment, Lisa Davis, US CEO of Canopius, said:
“John’s appointment underscores our ongoing commitment to strengthening our US financial lines business, which remains a cornerstone of our broader growth agenda. His extensive market insight and proven leadership will be instrumental in driving our next phase of development.”
FM Names New Chief Financial Officer
Commercial property insurer FM has announced the appointment of Alison Erbig as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective 1 November 2025. She succeeds Kevin Ingram, who will retire at year-end following an extraordinary 35-year tenure with the company.
In her new role, Erbig will oversee FM’s global financial operations, encompassing reporting, tax, planning, treasury, and risk management.
She joins FM from Liberty Mutual Insurance, where she served as CFO for Global Risk Solutions. Her previous roles included Comptroller and Director of Investor Relations, reflecting a well-rounded background in financial leadership.
Malcolm Roberts, Chairman and CEO of FM, commented:
“Alison brings strong financial acumen and strategic discipline to FM at a pivotal time. Her leadership will strengthen our financial resilience, ensure continued operational excellence, and reinforce our focus on sustainable performance.”
Alliant Expands Employee Benefits Leadership Across the Midwest
Alliant Insurance Services has expanded its Employee Benefits Group with the appointment of John Lapinski as Senior Vice President, enhancing the firm’s leadership presence across Michigan and the broader Midwest region.
With over 35 years of experience in employee benefits consulting, Lapinski is recognised for his expertise in plan design, compliance, cost management, and employee engagement.
In his new role, he will focus on helping mid-market and large organisations build customised, high-value benefits strategies that align with workforce wellbeing and organisational objectives.
This appointment reinforces Alliant’s commitment to regional expansion and to delivering innovative, client-focused solutions in an increasingly competitive benefits landscape.
Ameritas Unveils Key Leadership Promotions and Appointments
Ameritas has announced a series of strategic leadership promotions and new hires, reflecting its continued emphasis on talent development, strategic planning, and actuarial excellence.
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Scott Ballenger has been promoted to Second Vice President of Talent Development, following his successful tenure as Director of HR Business Partners.
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Sherri Fowler joins as Second Vice President of Customer Service, Retirement Plans, bringing a unique combination of accounting expertise and FINRA Series 6 certification.
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Bob MacDonald has been appointed Vice President of Strategic Planning, Executive, joining from Mutual of Omaha, where he led key corporate planning initiatives.
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Kyle O’Donnell steps into the role of Vice President of Actuarial, Individual, leveraging his credentials as a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries to strengthen Ameritas’ actuarial capabilities.
Together, these appointments highlight Ameritas’ commitment to cultivating leadership talent and enhancing its strategic and operational framework. The company continues to align its internal growth initiatives with its long-term vision for sustainable success in an evolving insurance landscape.
A Broader Trend Across the Insurance Sector
The latest wave of senior appointments reflects a broader pattern of strategic repositioning across the insurance industry. As the sector adapts to technological innovation, climate-related risks, and shifting customer expectations, insurers are increasingly prioritising leadership renewal as a lever for competitiveness.
Industry analysts note that these appointments underscore a renewed focus on:
- Strengthening regional leadership in high-growth markets;
- Deepening specialised expertise in underwriting, finance, and risk management;
- Accelerating digital transformation and operational efficiency;
- Embedding ESG and sustainability principles into strategic decision-making.
Collectively, these leadership changes signal a decisive move toward a more agile, accountable, and forward-looking insurance ecosystem — one prepared to navigate volatility while pursuing long-term value creation.
Leadership as the Engine of Resilience
As 2026 approaches, the global insurance industry is retooling its leadership engines to meet the challenges and opportunities of a changing world. Whether through the appointment of financial stewards, underwriting innovators, or strategic planners, these firms are positioning themselves to deliver stronger governance, sharper execution, and greater customer confidence.
In an environment defined by disruption and risk evolution, one truth remains constant: leadership drives resilience. And the recent appointments across Canopius, FM, Alliant, and Ameritas illustrate a sector not just preparing for the future — but actively shaping it.