SCOR unveils successor to chief executive Denis Kessler

In a release, SCOR noted: “As part of the rigorous work carried out since 2019 with the help of an international recruitment firm, the nomination committee has made every effort to identify the mode of governance and the people best able to ensure SCOR’s development over the coming years, while creating value for all its stakeholders.”

The credentials of Ribadeau-Dumas, whose career began at the French Council of State, include time spent at electrical systems group Thales, underground exploration specialist CGG, and aircraft equipment business Zodiac Aerospace.

“I am honoured by the confidence the board of directors has placed in me as their choice for the next group CEO,” commented the 48-year-old leader. “I am thrilled to be joining SCOR – whose teams are widely recognised for their high quality – and the (re)insurance sector, which is a fascinating and demanding industry.

“Together, serving our clients throughout the world, we will pursue SCOR’s development with passion.”

Meanwhile SCOR added that the board unanimously expressed the wish that Kessler continue his work as chairman, with a resolution to this effect to be submitted to the 2021 general meeting.

Kessler stated: “I would like to sincerely thank Augustin de Romanet, lead independent director, as well as all the members of the nomination committee, for the extremely thorough work they have carried out over the past few months.

“I have every confidence in Benoît Ribadeau-Dumas to ensure SCOR’s success over the coming years, and in particular to guarantee its long-term development with the twofold target of profitability and solvency. As we embark on the transition process, he can count on my full support.”