Global professional services company Aon plc has announced the appointment of Masahito Hirai as Chief Executive Officer of its Japan operations, effective June 30, 2026.
Hirai will oversee the company’s business strategy in Japan and be responsible for growth plans and customer service delivery across the market. He will report to Qin Lu, head of North Asia, and become a member of Aon’s North Asia leadership team.
Lu commented: “Max brings deep market insights, strong leadership skills and a clear focus on clients. His global business experience and collaborative leadership style position him well to build on our strong momentum in Japan and advance our Aon combined strategy – helping clients and colleagues navigate an increasingly complex risk environment.”
Hirai has more than three decades of experience in the insurance industry and has held senior leadership positions in multiple international markets.
He began his career at Tokio Marine in Japan and subsequently held executive positions in Asia, North and South America. He currently serves as CEO of Tokio Marine’s Asia regional operations, overseeing life and non-life insurance businesses in Southeast Asia and India.
Hirai has extensive experience managing large-scale insurance operations during periods of business growth and organizational change. The company noted that he was recognized for his strategic leadership, operational discipline and ability to develop collaborative teams across multiple markets. Aon added that his knowledge of the Japanese insurance landscape and client-led approach are expected to support the company’s continued growth in the country.
“I am honored to take on this role at an exciting time in the Japanese market, where tremendous opportunities exist,” Hirai added. “I have long respected Aon’s strong position and contribution to clients in Japan and look forward to working closely with colleagues to further strengthen our presence in the market.”
Aon also confirmed that outgoing Japan CEO Tatsuya Yamamoto will remain in an advisory role during the leadership transition.