Ardonagh Netherlands appoints in-country executive team

Ardonagh Netherlands has announced significant changes to its management team across its Dutch operations.

Sunny Léons, the existing CEO of Léons Group, has been appointed as the chief executive officer of Ardonagh Netherlands, where he will report to Conor Brennan, executive chairman of Ardonagh Global Partners.

Léons brings extensive experience, having developed Leons Group into an established international insurance broker over the last 43 years. He joined The Ardonagh Group when it first entered the Dutch market in October 2022.

“I was delighted to join Ardonagh from the inception of their exciting mission to establish a powerhouse in the Dutch market and I am proud of what we have achieved together. I look forward to continuing our collaborative partnership to expand our footprint and capitalise on emerging business opportunities, continuing to support Leons alongside the very capable leadership of Dov and the management team,” Léons said.

Dov Rychter, previously commercial director at Léons Group, will assume the position of managing director at Léons. With a background in cultivating long-term client relationships, Rychter is set to lead the firm’s expansion and enhance its stature on the global stage.

Jorg Roodbeen, previously CEO at Klap, has been named chief acquisitions officer, tasked with leading mergers and acquisitions in the Netherlands. After contributing significantly to Klap’s growth through strategic operations and acquisitions over 25 years, Roodbeen will now report to Des O’Connor, chief investment officer at Ardonagh Global Partners.

“Jorg’s deep knowledge of the Dutch market landscape will allow us to identify and execute on the best opportunities to drive growth and create value for our stakeholders and clients alike. He will be invaluable to spearhead our efforts in this important region,” O’Connor said.

“It has been an immense privilege to lead Klap and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished. With Fred’s vision and expertise, I know the company will continue to thrive. I’m excited to take on this new opportunity at Ardonagh Netherlands,” Roodbeen said.

Succeeding Roodbeen at Klap is Fred Willemze, taking over as managing director. With a career spanning over four decades, including senior roles at Marsh & McLennan companies, Willemze will focus on business development for the firm, which was established in 1854.

“I am honoured and thrilled to lead Klap as its Managing Director. This company has a rich legacy, and I look forward to working with the talented team to drive growth and bring sustainable and innovative insurance products to customers across The Netherlands,” Willemze said.

Bart-Jan Kastrop, meanwhile, will continue to lead high-net-worth brokerage Classicus Private Insurance.

“We are grateful for Jorg’s and Sunny’s outstanding leadership over the past years in positioning Klap and Leons for long-term success. We are equally excited to welcome Fred, whose proven track record and strategic mindset will be invaluable in unlocking Klap’s next phase of growth in the Dutch insurance market,” Brennan said.

The appointments are subject to the usual regulatory approvals.

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