Starr Insurance Names Sean Chen APAC President as Phil Finley Retires

Starr Insurance has announced a leadership transition in its Asia Pacific (APAC) operations, with Sean Chen appointed as the new President of APAC effective August 1, 2025. Chen will take over from Phil Finley, who is set to retire in early 2026 after 23 years at the company. Chen will continue his current role as CEO and Country Manager of Starr Singapore while leading the APAC region's strategic direction and operations.

Sean Chen brings over 25 years of industry experience, focusing on marketing and underwriting in property, energy, and construction sectors. His prior roles include expanding Starr's footprint in Korea, Taiwan, and Japan, and senior underwriting and management positions at Tokio Marine Kiln, Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance, Zurich North America, Aon, and Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty.

Phil Finley's retirement marks the end of a significant leadership era at Starr, reflecting a broader trend of succession planning within the commercial property and casualty insurance sector in APAC. Chen's appointment underscores Starr's commitment to leveraging experienced leadership to strengthen its market presence in the region.

The leadership change indicates a strategic focus on enhancing underwriting expertise and regional market growth, aligning with Starr’s goals under the wider APAC and LATAM oversight of Jose Ribeiro. This transition could impact the competitive landscape by driving innovation and operational efficiency within Starr's APAC business.

Overall, this management shift is of interest to industry professionals monitoring leadership dynamics, corporate governance, and market strategies within the commercial insurance and reinsurance spaces in the Asia Pacific region.