Incoming Aon CEO Australia Jennifer Richards will start on October 1, becoming the first woman to run the broker’s business here.

She is currently MD for Specialties and her appointment was announced last week.

Ms Richards takes over from James Baum, who is taking up a new role in London as UK Head of Commercial Risk on the same date.

Aon says Ms Richards has been with the business for the past 10 years. As MD for Specialties, she ensures clients receive the best service, outcomes and coverage. She is a member of Aon’s Asia-Pacific Global Leadership Team and Diversity & Inclusion Council.

“Her extensive experience across broking, M&A and leading complex clients means she is ideally placed to succeed [Mr Baum],” Aon said.

Before Aon, she held a variety of senior management roles at AIG where she was responsible for their M&A, private equity and real estate practices.