Hyperion Announces the appointment of Damien Coates as CEO of DUAL International
Hyperion Insurance Group Limited, the international insurance and reinsurance distribution group, is pleased to announce the appointment of Damien Coates as CEO of DUAL International, the Group’s largest specialist underwriting agency. He takes over from Bob Van Gieson who will become the non-executive Chairman of DUAL International.
Damien Coates joined the Group in 2003, founding DUAL Australia in 2004 and overseeing the opening of offices in Hong Kong in 2009 and Auckland in 2011. As Managing Director of DUAL Asia Pacific, Damien has steered the growth of the business to almost AUD100m in premium income. David Howden, CEO of Hyperion Insurance Group said “I am delighted that Damien has accepted the role of CEO. He and his team have grown the business in Asia Pacific at an impressive rate, and, more importantly, in a dynamic and innovative way. His infectious drive and enthusiasm for our business makes him the right person to take DUAL International to the next level.”
Damien Coates commented on his appointment “The company is in excellent shape, and I am excited to be asked to help guide its next phase of growth. When Bob joined DUAL in 2009, he set out a clear intention to put in place a structure and discipline which would not only allow the people in the business to deliver impressive results, but would also create a strong foundation for building for the future. In 2011, DUAL now has that strong foundation: exceptional people in underwriting, service and head office support, working in a streamlined way to deliver growth. I look forward to working with them to build on this, as we continue to deliver excellent service and focused growth.”
Prior to joining DUAL, Damien Coates was responsible for AIG's Commercial Management Liability Portfolio in the UK, Ireland and Africa. During his career he has held senior roles ranging from accounting to underwriting at a number of renowned international insurers.
The appointment is effective from January 2012 and it is planned that Damien Coates will move to London from Sydney to take up the role at DUAL’s head office.