James Addington-Smith has been appointed as CEO of Marsh UK. Subject to regulatory approval, Mr. Addington-Smith will take up his new role early in 2026, Marsh, the world’s leading insurance broker and risk advisor and a business of Marsh McLennan announced.

According to the company, as CEO of Marsh UK, Mr. Addington-Smith will lead the strategic development and execution of Marsh’s UK commercial strategy, which encompasses its risk management, corporate and commercial client segments, risk consulting services, and specialty insurance broking solutions. He will also work closely with Marsh McLennan’s leaders to deliver the firm’s market-leading capabilities across risk, strategy, and people to clients.

Mr. Addington-Smith succeeds Chris Lay, who also serves as CEO of Marsh McLennan UK, who will retire from the firm in Q1 2026 after over 40 years of service. A new CEO of Marsh McLennan UK will be announced in due course.

“James is an exceptional leader with a proven track record of client-focused innovation, working with both specialty and retail clients. It is very appropriate that someone with such a strong international career will lead our strategically important UK business, a global centre for insurance broking and innovation. I would also like to thank Chris for his tremendous contributions and impact on our firm, and his many years of leadership in our industry. We look forward to working closely with him in the years ahead as Chair of the London Market Group and Insurance United Against Dementia”, commented Martin South, President & CEO of Marsh.

“James’ strong leadership credentials and dedication to clients find opportunities in risk make him ideal to lead our UK operations. I would also like wish Chris well for the future. He has held senior executive roles across Europe, the Middle East, North America, and globally as well as the UK and will leave an enduring legacy, particularly for his strong work ethic and focus on culture”, said Flavio Piccolomini, CEO, Marsh McLennan, International.