WTW names first ANZ chief executive after APAC region merger

WTW has appointed former Aon senior executive, James Baum, as Head of Australia and New Zealand in the firm’s first internal regional lead hire after merging its Oceania and Asia-based offices in 2023 and installing Simon Weaver as the inaugural APAC regional lead.

The global advisory and broking firm also announced Baum would also take on the position of Head of Corporate Risk & Broking (CRB) Australia and New Zealand, with him to commence in both roles from 15 July. Weaver will continue to serve as Head of Asia Pacific and Head of CRB for Asia Pacific.

“I am delighted to have someone of James’s calibre join WTW. This appointment speaks to the company’s ability to attract market-leading talent. James is a seasoned leader with over 30 years of experience and has a proven track record of supporting growth and managing business operations. We’ve made tremendous progress and built great foundations for growth in Australasia in recent years, thanks to Simon Weaver, and now with James’s leadership, we are poised to take this to the next level,” Pamela Thomson-Hall, WTW Head of International and Head of Risk & Broking International, said.

Baum held several executive leadership roles during his 18 years at Aon, including Global Head of Wholesale & Specialty Broking, CEO of Australia and Chief Broking Officer for the Pacific region.

“I am excited to be joining WTW at a time of significant growth and opportunity in Australasia. WTW is well positioned to compete in the market – the company is winning new business and bringing the best solutions and talent to serve the people, risk and capital needs of clients. With its strong global brand, client-first passion and ambition to grow, I am looking forward to being part of this next phase and seeing WTW in Australasia realise its full potential for our clients and colleagues alike,” Baum said.

The appointment reflects the firm’s shift back to a closer top-down approach to the Australian and New Zealand region, after experiencing significant growth as part of the broader APAC area under Weaver’s leadership.

“Our value proposition around risk and specialisms is gaining significant traction with clients across Australasia, which is a testament to the quality of our people. With James’ deep knowledge and experience in the region, I am confident that he will supercharge our growth and fulfill our ambition to build a sustainable and thriving business for the benefit of our clients and colleagues,” Weaver said.