Willis Group Holdings, a UK-based insurance broker, has received official approval from local authorities to open a representative office in Kazakhstan.

The new Willis operation is located in Almaty, the financial center of Kazakhstan. According to Willis, all local contracts and policies will be issued through its existing network partner in the country, and CIS Risk Consultants, a Kazakh brokerage that provides a full range of insurance services.

In addition, along with commercial insurance, the new Willis office will also support both domestic and international clients with optimum reinsurance solutions delivered through the local insurance market.

In conjunction, the company has appointed Simon Aubrey-Jones, executive director for Eastern Europe, to head the new Kazakh venture.

Mr Aubrey-Jones said: “Formalizing Willis’ representation in Kazakhstan underscores Willis’ commitment to this country and its future growth and development.

“We are confident that our investment in Kazakhstan, an area so rich in natural resources, will yield many rewards and we look forward to becoming a leading player in its insurance and reinsurance industry.”