HDI hires new head of global distribution for specialty division

Specialty lines insurer HDI Global Specialty SE (HDI) has appointed John Button as its new head of global distribution and business development, effective immediately.

Button (pictured) has spent eight years at HDI Global SE and three years as the strategic relationship manager at HDI Global Specialty.

As the head of global distribution and business development for HDI’s global operations, Button will help HDI’s parent company, HDI Global SE, align its distribution strategy as one face to HDI’s broker partners.

He replaces Alan Waters, who held the position for more than three years and left the company by mutual agreement last month. He will report to Richard Taylor, executive board member and chief marketing officer.

Taylor said the role is crucial to the company as its specialty lines business relies on broker partnership and support.

“I am delighted with the appointment. John has gained vast experience in strategic management of distribution working with Alan, and I wish him every success in his new role,” he said.

Commenting on his appointment, Button said: “This new role presents an exciting opportunity for me, and I am really looking forward to working with Richard to continue to build our market reputation with our broker partners.”

Button’s entrance to HDI Global Specialty SE follows HDI Global Specialty’s appointment of a new underwriting manager for crisis management in Australasia.