Towers Watson Appoints Eric Speer as Global Head of Risk Consulting and Software

ARLINGTON, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Global professional services company Towers Watson (NYSE, NASDAQ: TW) today announced the appointment of Eric Speer as global leader for the company's Risk Consulting and Software business. The appointment will be effective September 1, 2014. Mr. Speer will be based in Towers Watson's Stamford office.

Mr. Speer has extensive experience as a strategy and organization consultant focusing on insurance and financial services clients. He has held a number of senior positions during his 25 years with Towers Watson, including leadership of the Americas region for Risk Consulting and Software. He more recently moved to the human capital consulting side of the business and has managed Towers Watson's east division in the U.S. for the past eight years.

“Eric brings a wealth of experience to his new role, as well as an understanding of insurance industry dynamics. I'm delighted to have him join our segment's leadership team,” said Tricia Guinn, Towers Watson's managing director, Risk and Financial Services. Mr. Speer added, “I am optimistic about the opportunities for this business and looking forward to helping our clients tackle their most pressing business issues while also working with the RCS leadership team to drive profitable growth.”

Mr. Speer replaces Rory O'Brien, who was appointed head of Risk Consulting and Software in 2011 shortly after joining Towers Watson through its acquisition of EMB, where he served as a managing partner.

“It has been a privilege to lead Towers Watson's Risk Consulting and Software business,” said Mr. O'Brien. “I'm really proud of what we have achieved over the past three years but feel I've reached a point in my career where I'm ready to embark on new challenges. I'm delighted to be leaving the business in the capable hands of the leadership team.”

“I've sincerely enjoyed working with Rory and wish him the best as he enters a new phase in his career. My colleagues and I thank him for his many contributions to the business,” said Ms. Guinn.

About Towers Watson

Towers Watson (NYSE, NASDAQ: TW) is a leading global professional services company that helps organizations improve performance through effective people, risk and financial management. The company offers consulting, technology and solutions in the areas of benefits, talent management, rewards, and risk and capital management. Towers Watson has more than 14,000 associates around the world and is located on the web at towerswatson.com.