Marsh expands leadership as David Jacob becomes president of Marsh Asia

Addington-Smith, currently President of Marsh Asia, will take on a new role.

Marsh has appointed James Addington-Smith as CEO of Marsh UK, as David Jacob, CEO of Marsh McLennan Asia, will take on the additional position of President of Marsh Asia.

Addington-Smith joined Marsh in 2010 as Marine Leader for Asia after working as a senior marine broker in Hong Kong and London. 

He is currently President of Marsh Asia and has previously led Marsh Specialty in Asia. Before joining the industry, he served as an officer in the British Army.

Addington-Smith’s role expected to begin in early 2026 subject to regulatory approval. 

He will report to Flavio Piccolomini, CEO of Marsh McLennan International, and will be based in London.

Addington-Smith will oversee the firm’s UK commercial strategy, including its risk management, corporate and commercial segments, risk consulting services and specialty broking operations. 

He will also work with Marsh McLennan leaders to deliver the group’s risk, strategy and people advisory services to clients.

He will succeed Chris Lay, who also serves as CEO of Marsh McLennan UK and will retire in the first quarter of 2026 after more than 40 years with the firm. Marsh said it will name a new CEO for Marsh McLennan UK at a later date.