SKN | Helvetia Names Martin Gingg as New CEO of Specialty Lines CH & International

Helvetia is reorganizing its leadership structure within its specialty insurance operations, appointing Martin Gingg as the new CEO of Specialty Lines CH & International. The move separates a previously dual-led division and marks a strategic shift for the Swiss insurer as it strengthens its global specialty business.

Leadership Transition at the Start of 2026

Gingg will assume his new role at the beginning of 2026, the company announced Friday. He succeeds David Ribeaud, who had overseen both the Specialty Markets segment and Specialty Lines CH & International. With the new structure, Ribeaud will continue as CEO of Specialty Markets and is also expected to become chairman of the board of Helvetia Global Solutions (HGS) next year.

Gingg will maintain his existing role as CEO of HGS while taking on the expanded responsibilities of leading the Specialty Lines division. His dual experience within the group is expected to bring continuity and expertise to Helvetia’s increasingly international specialty business.

A Career Built on Global Experience

Gingg brings extensive global expertise to the position. He joined National Suisse in 2011, three years before its acquisition by Helvetia, and has since held several leadership roles across specialty lines and international operations.

Before joining Helvetia, he spent six years in the United States as Executive Director for Financial Services at PwC, followed by two years at Ernst & Young (now EY) in London. His background combines insurance, consulting, and international business development—skills seen as particularly valuable for leading Helvetia’s high-complexity specialty areas.

A Core Division With Global Reach

Helvetia’s Specialty Lines division covers a broad range of complex insurance segments, including engineering and technical risks, transport and marine, aviation, space, fine art, and embedded insurance. The business maintains a global footprint with branches in London and Singapore and a management agency in Miami.

According to company figures, the division currently employs around 360 specialists worldwide. With its international setup and highly technical focus areas, Specialty Lines represents a key growth driver within Helvetia’s broader strategic portfolio.

Strategic Significance of the Leadership Shift

The decision to split the dual leadership roles reflects Helvetia’s intention to strengthen focus and governance across different specialty segments. By appointing a dedicated CEO for Specialty Lines, the insurer aims to accelerate growth, improve operational effectiveness, and deepen expertise in markets that require specialized underwriting and global coordination.