Willis Group Holdings announced that Michiel Bakker has been appointed Managing Director and Head of Europe for its Willis Capital Markets and Advisory unit, formed earlier this year to expand the broker’s capital markets and merger and acquisitions advisory services to the insurance and reinsurance industry.
Based in London, Bakker will be responsible for developing the business in Europe and will report to Tony Ursano, Chief Executive Officer, Willis Capital Markets and Advisory.
Bakker joins Willis from Bank of America where, until the start of 2009, he was Managing Director and Head of the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) Financial Institutions Group with responsibility for strategic advisory, financing, capital and risk management. Before joining Bank of America in 2004, Bakker spent 16 years at Goldman Sachs working in various roles in the investment banking division in London, Tokyo and Singapore. Bakker holds a Masters degree in Economics from the University of St. Gallen, Switzerland.
Commenting on Bakker’s appointment, Ursano said, ‘Willis’ rapid expansion of its capital markets capabilities in addition to its cutting edge analytics and risk management expertise continue to set the stage for a truly unique platform that proves its commitment to building the highest quality capital markets and M&A advisory business. The financial crisis has proven that the ability to provide independent and objective advice is a cornerstone to building long-term relationships and providing exceptional client service.
“Michiel has more than 21 years of experience in the European financial services market and has been involved in financings and advisory transactions for some of the biggest names in the industry. His experience, in conjunction with the global reach of Willis, makes him the ideal person to help us grow the team and expand our business in Europe.”
Established in March 2009, Willis Capital Markets & Advisory expands on Willis’ already existing capital markets capability and is focused on advising insurance and reinsurance companies and clients on a broad array of capital markets products and mergers and acquisitions.
