The chairman of Willis Re Australia Michael Harden has been appointed chief executive officer of Willis Re Bermuda in a move that the reinsurer describes as “an important leadership change.”A Willis spokesman said that Mr Harden has extensive experience in property and casualty reinsurance, as well as specialty accounts. His remit is to expand the business on the island.Commenting on his appointment, Mr Harden said: “This is a great opportunity. I look forward to beginning a new chapter in my career and embracing a new challenge. My focus will be to further enhance Willis Re’s profile on the island, and build upon the team’s current success.”John Cavanagh, global chief executive officer of Willis Re, stated: “Given Bermuda’s special place within the global reinsurance network, it is crucial for Willis Re to constantly invest in enhancing our client offering there.“Michael has been key in building our Australian operation into one of our most preeminent reinsurance franchises, and so will play a crucial role in driving the development of our Bermuda team.”The appointment is effective January 1, 2014.