Daniel Cossette to retire from Munich Re; Gavin Maistry to succeed as Chief Executive, Life and Health APAC MEA

Munich Re today announces the retirement of Daniel Cossette who has decided to conclude his tenure after 19 years with the Group. He is succeeded by Gavin Maistry as Chief Executive for Life and Health Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, who will take over during H2 2026, upon appointment of a successor for his current role of Global Chief Actuary, Life and Health. He will report to Mari-Lizette Malherbe, Member of the Board of Management, Munich Re.

Under Daniel Cossette’s leadership the Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa region has demonstrated significant growth and reliable profit contributions to the global Life and Health organisation. He established the regional centre in Singapore, launched the Financially Motivated Reinsurance business, expanded the High Net Worth segment from Singapore, and introduced an interlocked business model combining reinsurance, digital solutions and Third-Party Administration services via MedNet in the Middle East. To respond to the digital transformation of the industry, Cossette also strengthened innovation and digital capabilities, overseeing the software companies Munich Re HealthTech and Munich Re Automation Solutions, and establishing Munich Re Digital Solutions in Asia Pacific. Today Munich Re is a leading international reinsurance player in the region combining risk transfer, capital and technology solutions. 

“With a keen eye on market sentiments, growth opportunities, technological developments and operational optimisation, Daniel propelled the business forward to meet the evolving needs of the dynamic and diverse markets in the region. We are deeply appreciative of his dedication and leadership achievements which will serve as an enduring source of inspiration,” said Mari-Lizette Malherbe.

Gavin Maistry is currently Global Chief Actuary, Life and Health at Munich Re. Prior to this, he was Regional Chief Risk Officer and Deputy CEO Life and Health APAC MEA. He is with Munich Re since 2008 and has more than 30 years of experience in the reinsurance and insurance industry. 

Mari-Lizette Malherbe: “Our markets in Asia, Australia, Middle East and Africa play a crucial role when it comes to delivering on Munich Re’s overall growth targets for the Life and Health reinsurance business. With his vast experience, Gavin is highly qualified to drive our ambitions in the full spectrum of Life and Health reinsurance, including traditional and financial reinsurance, longevity solutions, and strategic transactions.”

Gavin Maistry: “Finding the best solution for our clients is and will continue to be the driving force of our Life and Health business in the region. We want to continue to grow our portfolio in APAC MEA. I am thrilled to lead a team that is based on competence, entrepreneurial thinking and an innovative mindset.”

In his new role, Gavin Maistry will oversee approximately 600 professionals across 16 branches and representative offices, serving over 600 clients in APAC MEA. In addition, he will provide strategic direction for four non-reinsurance divisions (MedNet, Munich Re Automation Solutions, Munich Re HealthTech and Munich Re Digital Solutions Beijing) with around 1100 employees in 16 countries.