Willis Group has endorsed Chairman and CEO Joe Plumeri with an 18-month contract extension as part of several senior management appointments announced by the company.

Mr Plumeri’s contract was due to expire in October next year but has been extended to April 2011.

Willis also announced the promotion of Grahame Millwater to the new role of President.

Mr Millwater was formerly COO of Willis’ London insurance brokerage.

He will continue to work out of London with a new role that includes global business development.

Willis created two group COO positions to succeed Mr Millwater in London, appointing Tim Wright and Patrick Regan.

Mr Regan is currently CFO and will juggle the two roles.