Aon snaps up broker veteran for new c-suite role

Aon has appointed Phil Smaje as its new global chief broking officer of transportation and logistics for commercial risk.

In the newly created role, Smaje will take responsbility for further developing Aon’s services to transportation and logistics clients.

He will also look at solutions to enhance the way specialty clients are advised on optimising capital to navigate volatility.

Smaje will be based in Aon’s London office and will report to Lee Meyrick, chief executive of global marine for commercial risk.

Meyrick said: “We are thrilled to work with Phil to help our transportation and logistics clients better understand new and existing risks and match risk and capital in this growing and dynamic industry.”

Experience

Prior to joining Aon, Smaje was head of broking at Ardonagh Specialty.

Before taking up his role with Ardonagh Specialty, Smaje cofounded Piiq Risk Partners in 2020 and served as its chief executive until 2022.

He has also held senior roles at Willis Towers Watson (WTW), such as global head of broking, chief broking officer for Willis GB and chief executive for aerospace.

Smaje’s appointment at Aon came after several c-suite appointments across the business, including Steve Dando being named chief executive of EMEA.

Meanwhile, Jane Kielty was named as the broker’s new UK chief executive in January.