New chief executive at Dual International

Hyperion Insurance Group has named Damien Coates as chief executive of its specialist underwriting agency Dual International. 

Coates is taking over from Bob Van Gieson who will become the non-executive chairman of Dual.

Coates joined the Group in 2003, founding Dual Australia in 2004 and overseeing the opening of offices in Hong Kong in 2009 and Auckland in 2011. 

As managing director of Dual Asia Pacific he has helped grow the business to almost AUD100m in premium income.

David Howden, chief executive of Hyperion Insurance Group said: “I am delighted that Damien has accepted the role of chief executive. He and his team have grown the business in Asia Pacific at an impressive rate, and, more importantly, in a dynamic and innovative way.  His infectious drive and enthusiasm for our business makes him the right person to take Dual International to the next level.” 

Coates added: “The company is in excellent shape, and I am excited to be asked to help guide its next phase of growth.  When Bob joined DUAL in 2009, he set out a clear intention to put in place a structure and discipline which would not only allow the people in the business to deliver impressive results, but would also create a strong foundation for building for the future.” 

Coates will start in January and will move to Dual’s head office in London from his base in Sydney.