Willis appoints Canada leader

By Jason Contant, | May 23, 2025 | Last updated on May 27, 2025
2 min read
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Willis, a WTW business, has announced the appointment of Grant Williamson as Canada leader within the organization’s Corporate Risk and Broking (CRB) business.

“In this role, Williamson will partner with the Canadian leadership team and leaders across North America and global specialty lines to drive the Canadian growth strategy through targeted go-to-market initiatives and strengthened local execution,” WTW says in a press release issued Tuesday. “Williamson’s appointment reflects the company’s commitment to deepening its leadership presence in Canada and driving continued growth in this key market.”

With 20 years of experience spanning enterprise risk management, property and casualty insurance, and employment practices liability, Williamson has built a strong track record of delivering client-focused risk solutions, WTW says. He joined the company in October 2024 as deputy regional leader, chief commercial officer and head of strategy & execution for Willis in Canada.

Prior to joining the global advisory, broking, and solutions company, Williamson held key senior roles in the insurance industry, including national corporate segment & central zone leader at Marsh and managing director of the Toronto branch at JLT Canada.

Williamson will be based in Toronto and report to Ionel Rizea, chief commercial officer of CRB North America.

“We are thrilled to have Grant step into this critical role. His deep understanding of the industry and his innovative approach to risk management will drive significant client value and growth for our Canadian business,” Rizea says.

“Grant brings a clear strategic lens, and his expertise in the Canadian market makes him exceptionally well-suited for this role,” adds Pat Donnelly, Willis’ head of risk & broking North America. “His collaborative approach, combined with a client-first mindset, will be key as we expand our Canadian presence.”

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Jason Contant

Jason has been an award-winning journalist with Canadian Underwriter for more than a decade, including the past three years as associate editor and, before that, as digital editor for seven years.