We at Gen Re mourn the passing of Ron Ferguson, our former Chairman and CEO, whose leadership from 1987 to 2002 helped shape the modern reinsurance industry and left a legacy on our company and profession.

Ron joined General Re in 1969, bringing with him a strong actuarial background and a deep commitment to analytical rigor. He was a pioneer in actuarial science, consistently seeking new frameworks to improve the measurement and understanding of our business. Most notably, in 1972, he co-developed the Bornhuetter-Ferguson method—now a foundational technique in actuarial science for estimating insurance liabilities.

As CEO, Ron led Gen Re through a period of strategic global expansion and diversification. He oversaw the acquisition of Cologne Re (now General Reinsurance AG) in 1994, significantly expanding our international presence. In 1995, he added New England Asset Management (NEAM) to the group, providing leading third-party investment management services to insurers, and in 1998, he oversaw the acquisition of the DP Mann syndicate at Lloyd’s (now Faraday) to establish a long-term foothold for Gen Re in the London market.

Later that year, Ron orchestrated the landmark sale of General Re to Berkshire Hathaway. The transaction ensured Gen Re’s long-term stability and independence within one of the world’s most respected financial institutions.

A Fellow of the Casualty Actuarial Society, Ron championed intellectual discipline, underwriting integrity, and professional mentorship throughout his career. His influence can be seen not only in the evolution of Gen Re but in the broader reinsurance and actuarial communities. Many of our colleagues today benefit from having worked personally with Ron, gaining from his experience and intense passion for the business, and specifically his commitment to Gen Re. He had a unique knack for fostering a sense of community and collaboration, inspiring colleagues to not only excel professionally but also to continuously learn from the world around us and to support each other personally.

We remember Ron Ferguson with profound respect, gratitude, and admiration—for his vision, his values, and the legacy he leaves behind.

Click here to view Ron’s obituary.