Willis Group Deputy CEO Steve Hearn has been appointed CEO of global wholesale and reinsurance broker Cooper Gay Swett & Crawford (CGSC).

He will replace Toby Esser, who last month announced his decision to step down.

Mr Hearn joined Willis Re in 2008 and held a number of senior roles before being promoted to the deputy position at Willis Group.

He is also Chairman of the London & International Insurance Brokers’ Association and Chairman of the influential London Market Group.

Mr Hearn will start in his new role on November 2.