I’m thrilled to sit down with Simon Glairy, a renowned expert in insurance and Insurtech, whose deep insights into risk management and AI-driven risk assessment have made him a trusted voice in the industry. Today, we’ll explore some of the latest shifts in the insurance landscape, from key leadership changes and strategic acquisitions to the growing role of technology in transforming operations. Our conversation will touch on how these developments are shaping the future for insurers, clients, and partners alike.
How do you see Joe Chamberlain’s background at Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Group equipping him for his new role at Nationwide?
Joe’s time at Mitsui Sumitomo gave him a broad perspective on diverse lines like property, marine, and workers’ compensation, which are critical for understanding the complexities of small commercial operations. His role as chief administrative officer likely honed his ability to oversee large-scale processes and align teams, skills that are directly applicable to driving service solutions at Nationwide. That kind of experience builds a strong foundation for navigating the unique challenges of the small commercial space.
What do you think Nationwide means by a “people-first leadership style,” and why does it matter in this context?
I believe Nationwide is emphasizing a leadership approach that prioritizes team engagement and collaboration over purely top-down decision-making. In a role like Joe’s, where operational excellence and service delivery are key, fostering a supportive culture ensures that teams are motivated to innovate and solve problems for clients. It’s especially important in small commercial, where personalized service can be a differentiator in a competitive market.
Turning to The Mutual Group, what stands out about Tom Troy’s career that positions him as the right leader for their next phase of growth?
Tom’s track record across USAA, CSAA, and Allstate shows a blend of strategic vision and operational grit. His role as chief transformation officer at USAA likely involved modernizing processes and embracing tech-driven change, which is exactly what The Mutual Group needs to accelerate momentum. His diverse leadership roles also suggest he can adapt to different organizational cultures, a crucial skill for steering a company into new territory.
What might “the next phase of growth” look like for The Mutual Group under Tom’s leadership?
I suspect it involves expanding market share or diversifying product offerings, possibly through digital tools or new customer segments. Given Tom’s background in transformation, there could be a push toward leveraging data analytics or partnerships to enhance customer experience. It’s also likely he’ll focus on operational scalability to support sustainable growth while maintaining the company’s core values.
Shifting to acquisitions, why do you think expanding into credit insurance through Applied Risk Capital is such a big deal for Amwins?
Credit insurance is a specialized niche that’s becoming increasingly vital as businesses face economic uncertainties. For Amwins, this move broadens their underwriting portfolio and positions them as a more comprehensive solution provider. It’s a strategic step to capture a growing market, especially in leveraged finance, where risk management tools like credit insurance can be a game-changer for clients.
How does Amwins’ scale and infrastructure add value to this acquisition for clients and partners?
Amwins brings extensive resources, from deep industry relationships to robust systems, that can amplify Applied Risk Capital’s reach. Their scale means they can integrate and distribute specialized products more effectively, offering clients seamless access to credit insurance solutions. For partners, it creates opportunities for collaboration on a larger platform, potentially driving innovation and better risk mitigation strategies.
Looking at AIG’s recent promotions in their North America Commercial division, what do you think prompted these leadership changes?
These promotions likely stem from a need to refresh strategic direction, especially following the retirement of a senior executive. AIG seems to be aligning its leadership structure to better address the distinct needs of retail and wholesale markets. Elevating Allison Cooper, Barbara Luck, and Lou Levinson suggests confidence in their ability to drive growth and innovation in their respective areas during a pivotal time for the company.
How do you see the roles of co-presidents of retail differing from the president of wholesale at AIG?
The retail side, handled by Allison and Barbara, probably focuses on direct client relationships and tailored solutions for businesses or individuals, requiring a hands-on, customer-centric approach. In contrast, Lou’s wholesale role likely centers on broader distribution channels, working with brokers and agents to scale product offerings. Each demands a unique skill set, with retail emphasizing service and wholesale prioritizing partnerships and volume.
On the tech front, how is AI reshaping insurance operations, based on recent partnerships like Secura Insurance with Kalepa?
AI is revolutionizing how insurers handle underwriting and claims by automating data analysis and delivering actionable insights. Secura’s partnership with Kalepa shows how AI can enhance decision-making without losing the human touch that’s central to their community focus. It’s about scaling efficiency—underwriters can process more risks faster while staying true to their values. This trend is only going to grow as companies seek competitive edges through technology.
What is your forecast for the role of AI in the insurance industry over the next few years?
I expect AI to become deeply embedded in nearly every facet of insurance, from personalized pricing models to predictive claims management. We’ll likely see more agentic AI, like what Davies is rolling out, where systems don’t just assist but proactively handle complex tasks. The challenge will be balancing automation with trust—ensuring clients and regulators feel confident in AI-driven decisions. It’s an exciting space, but it’ll require careful navigation to maintain that human element.
