HDI Global Promotes Nikita Tikhonov to Head of Marine Global Risk Amid Leadership Transition
HANOVER, Germany — HDI Global SE, a leading industrial insurer and part of the Talanx Group, announced on August 26, 2025, the promotion of Nikita Tikhonov to the role of Head of Marine Global Risk, effective September 1, 2025. The appointment comes as the company continues to bolster its marine underwriting capabilities in a dynamic global market, succeeding Felix Cassau, who is departing for a new opportunity at Hannover Re, a sister company within the Talanx ecosystem.
Tikhonov, a long-time HDI Global executive, will lead a team of five experts based at the company’s headquarters in Hanover. Reporting directly to Dr. Carsten Schulte, Global Head of Marine Underwriting, Tikhonov’s new responsibilities include driving the strategic agenda for marine global risk hubs, enhancing underwriting excellence, and supporting HDI Global’s international growth in marine insurance. The marine division plays a critical role in providing comprehensive cargo and marine coverages to corporate and commercial clients worldwide, collaborating closely with HDI Risk Consulting and claims handling teams.
“I am very grateful and truly excited for this opportunity to guide our Marine Global Risk Hubs towards our vision of underwriting excellence. I believe it will be a fascinating journey,” Tikhonov stated in an official release. Dr. Schulte echoed this enthusiasm, noting, “Nikita brings strong expertise, energy, and a fresh perspective to the role. I am confident that under his leadership, we will continue to act as our clients’ and brokers’ preferred Partner in Transformation as he will drive our Marine Global Risk agenda forward. I wish Nikita much success in his new role.”
Tikhonov’s Background and Expertise
Tikhonov’s career trajectory positions him well for this leadership role. He began his professional journey as a marine and property underwriter in Russia before joining HDI Global in 2018. In his initial years with the company, he was instrumental in building and developing new portfolios in marine cargo and accident & health insurance. More recently, as a global risk underwriter, Tikhonov has supported local underwriters across HDI Global’s worldwide branch offices in expanding their automotive portfolios, leveraging his deep industry knowledge to foster portfolio development and risk management strategies.
This promotion underscores HDI Global’s commitment to internal talent development and continuity in its marine operations. The company, which specializes in insuring trading, production, and service industries, has been actively strengthening its global teams to address evolving risks in the maritime sector, including supply chain disruptions, geopolitical tensions, and climate-related challenges.
Context Within HDI Global’s Recent Leadership Changes
The appointment follows a series of strategic moves within HDI Global’s marine and underwriting divisions. Earlier this year, in December 2024, Dr. Carsten Schulte was named Global Head of Marine, effective January 1, 2025, succeeding Alexander Schlei, who transitioned to Head of Technical & Strategic Services. Schulte’s prior work in portfolio steering and building the Technical & Strategic Services division has been pivotal in enhancing underwriting processes and natural hazard risk management.
Felix Cassau, Tikhonov’s predecessor, contributed significantly to the marine global risk function before deciding to pursue new challenges at Hannover Re. This internal mobility highlights the interconnected nature of the Talanx Group’s operations, allowing for seamless knowledge transfer across entities.
HDI Global’s marine business is a cornerstone of its offerings, managing worldwide underwriting for marine risks and providing tailored solutions to clients navigating complex global trade routes. With a focus on innovation and risk expertise, the company aims to maintain its position as a reliable partner for businesses facing maritime uncertainties.
Implications for the Global Insurance Market
For U.S.-based stakeholders in the insurance and maritime industries, this leadership change at HDI Global signals stability and forward momentum in the European-dominated marine insurance landscape. As a key player in industrial insurance, HDI Global’s enhancements in marine global risk could influence reinsurance dynamics and coverage options for American shipping firms, exporters, and logistics providers operating internationally. The emphasis on underwriting excellence aligns with broader industry trends toward data-driven risk assessment amid rising cyber threats, environmental risks, and supply chain vulnerabilities.
HDI Global, headquartered in Hanover with a global footprint including offices in the United States, continues to prioritize sustainable growth. Earlier in 2025, the company also appointed Christian Wegener as Head of Investment Management, reflecting ongoing efforts to optimize its financial and operational strategies.
As Tikhonov steps into his new role, industry observers anticipate continued innovation in marine risk management, potentially benefiting multinational clients and reinforcing HDI Global’s competitive edge in a sector vital to global commerce.