PartnerRe has announced the appointment of Chris Shanahan as CEO of its life and health division, effective January 1, 2024. Shanahan will succeed Marc Archambault, who is retiring after leading the division. Alongside his new role, Shanahan will join PartnerRe’s executive leadership team.
Shanahan brings over six years of experience within PartnerRe, having held several leadership positions. He currently serves as CEO of North America Life, a role he has held since 2021. Previously, he served as president of US life operations and executive vice president of life corporate development.
His career spans over three decades in the reinsurance and insurance industries, including leadership roles at Hannover Re, Scottish Re, and Lincoln Financial Group. He holds a degree in actuarial science from Drake University.
PartnerRe CEO Philippe Meyenhofer highlighted Shanahan’s qualifications, citing his expertise across the industry as a key attribute.
Meyenhofer also acknowledged the contributions of Archambault, crediting him with building a strong foundation for the life and health division.
Earlier this year, the reinsurer reported its financial results for the first half of 2024, showing significant activity across its segments.
The company recorded gross premiums written of US$5.3 billion and a net income attributable to the company of US$358 million. Operating income stood at US$366 million, translating to an operating income return on equity of 8.9%.
While the company faced challenges from mid-sized natural catastrophe events and reserve strengthening in US casualty lines, its non-life segment delivered positive underwriting results, underscoring PartnerRe’s resilience and strategic focus.
PartnerRe continues to position itself as a leader in the reinsurance market, with Shanahan’s appointment signaling its commitment to growth and excellence in the life and health sector.