Jamieson Named President of Ryan Specialty’s SSRU as Stewart Steps Down

Ryan Specialty, the Chicago-based insurance group, announced that Heather M. Jamieson has been appointed president of Stewart Specialty Risk Underwriting (SSRU), effective immediately, in a planned leadership transition.

Toronto-based SSRU provides specialty coverage for large account, high hazard property and casualty risks and is a part of Ryan Specialty’s underwriting management specialty unit, Ryan Specialty Underwriting Managers (RSUM).

As part of a planned succession process, Stephen Stewart will step down as president of SSRU, effective today (Sept. 22), and will be immediately succeeded by Jamieson.

Stewart will continue to serve as Ryan Specialty Canada’s chief executive officer through the end of 2026. Jamieson will assume that role effective Jan. 1, 2027, thereby ensuring an orderly transfer of responsibilities and continuity for colleagues, brokers, insurer trading partners, and the business as a whole, the company said.

As president, Jamieson will assume responsibility for the day-to-day leadership and performance of the business, including operations, sales, client service, insurer relationships, and execution of the company’s strategic priorities. She will work closely with Stewart and the broader leadership team during the transition period.

“Since founding SSRU in 2016, my goal has been to build the company into what it has become today – a leading underwriter of complex commercial property and casualty business in Canada,” Stewart commented in a statement.

“Partnering with Ryan Specialty was a natural next step in the company’s growth journey, and I believe the time is right for the next generation of leadership to guide the business forward,” he said. “It has been a privilege to lead SSRU and to work alongside such a talented team. I am pleased that Heather Jamieson has accepted the role of president.” He noted that he has worked closely with Jamieson since 2019.

“Stephen has played a critical role in building SSRU into the market-leading business it is today and in successfully guiding its integration into Ryan Specialty,” according to Miles Wuller, CEO of Ryan Specialty Underwriting Managers. “This transition reflects a thoughtful and natural succession plan, and we are grateful for Stephen’s leadership and partnership throughout that journey. We are equally excited that Heather will lead the next chapter of growth for the business.”