Former AIG CEO Martin Sullivan has joined Willis Group as Deputy Chairman and CEO of a new business unit, Willis Global Solutions.

The new unit, based in New York, will look after brokerage and risk management advisory services for the company’s global accounts.

Mr Sullivan’s role involves him helping to mange the long-term growth strategies for the company, working with Chairman Joe Plumeri as part of the executive committee.

As CEO of Willis Global Solutions, Mr Sullivan will work with Willis President Grahame Millwater to develop a new service offering to challenge entrenched brokers who have a significant market share of the multinational large account sector.

Mr Plumeri says Mr Sullivan’s extensive experience in the insurance industry will be an asset to Willis.

“Martin will be working for our current and future clients in the type of role that has earned him well-deserved recognition over many decades in our business.”

Mr Sullivan began his career in insurance in 1970 joining AIU, the non-life company of AIG. In 1993 he became President of AIU’s UK operations and MD of AIG Europe.

He was appointed COO of AIU in New York in 1996 and became CEO of AIG in 2005, leaving in 2008.