FERMA Names Laurent Nihoul as CEO, Citing Industry Expertise

The Federation of European Risk Management Associations (FERMA) has appointed Laurent Nihoul as CEO, effective December 1, 2025. Mr. Nihoul, a current FERMA board member and former chair of its captive insurance committee, becomes the first industry executive from the insurance and risk management sector to lead the organization as CEO. 

The move signals FERMA's intent to strengthen its leadership with deep industry experience. Mr. Nihoul brings nearly 30 years of expertise to the position, most recently serving as general manager and group head of insurance at ArcelorMittal, where he has worked since 2014. His background spans reinsurance, enterprise risk management, risk finance, and underwriting. 

As CEO, Mr. Nihoul will be tasked with expanding FERMA's advocacy reach, improving engagement with its member associations, and raising the visibility of risk management in both European and global arenas. 

"It is an honour to be appointed CEO of FERMA at such a pivotal moment. Over the past decade, FERMA has achieved significant progress, and my goal is to build on that with renewed ambition and clarity. We will raise our sights and look to unleash the full potential of FERMA. Collaboration will be key. We will focus on establishing a more coordinated, inclusive approach that brings our member associations closer together around a shared vision. FERMA will continue to lead with confidence, driving innovation and excellence across the risk and insurance landscape to elevate the risk profession," Mr. Nihoul said. 

Charlotte Hedemark, president of FERMA, said, "Laurent's appointment demonstrates FERMA's commitment to ensuring it is led by experience. With an extensive career in the insurance and risk sector, his market insight, leadership acumen, and deep understanding of the needs of the risk management community will be integral to maintaining the ongoing evolution of FERMA as we continue to advance our mission to represent the interests of European risk managers at all levels." 

Philippe Cotelle, incoming FERMA president, said, "As incoming president, I'm excited to begin this new chapter alongside Laurent, whose appointment as CEO marks an important step in the advancement of FERMA. By fostering strong alignment between our strategic direction and executive focus, we will concentrate on uniting and energizing the risk management community, expanding our reach, and ensuring FERMA remains a driving force for cooperation, innovation, and influence across Europe and internationally."