The Bermuda Business Development Agency (BDA) has appointed David Hart as CEO, effective 1 October. The appointment follows the departure of Roland Andy Burrows, who held the position of CEO since 2018 and will continue at the agency as senior consultant through year-end in order to support the leadership transition. The BDA offers support and solutions in the island’s key industries, including asset management, climate risk finance, infrastructure and insurance. In particular, the agency promotes Bermuda as a leading, well-regulated captive domicile, with a wide range of industries in the jurisdiction currently utilising captives as an alternative risk management tool. The BDA estimates that Bermuda’s total of 715 captives write gross premiums of around $40 million. Hart previously served as executive vice president of the Florida Chamber of Commerce, where he was part of the leadership team responsible for employment growth, economic diversification and additional capital investments. During his time at the business advocacy organisation, collaborations with private and public sector partners saw Florida grow to the 15th largest economy in the world and attract approximately US$1.9 million in capital every hour. Hart comments: “I am very excited and honoured to be joining the BDA team. The BDA’s mission of fostering sustainable, equitable prosperity for Bermuda, and encouraging jobs, investment, and innovation to come to the Island, has never been more important.” “I am thrilled to join a world-class team and accelerate our efforts to bring investment and jobs to Bermuda. The island’s track record of leadership on a global scale, access to world markets and talented pool of human capital are significant strengths as we seek to diversify Bermuda’s economy and support our trading partners worldwide.” Stephen Weinstein, chair of the BDA, adds: “On behalf of the board of directors, we welcome David to the BDA and the Bermuda community at this critical time. His leadership, communication skills, and deep experience in economic development and public policy, are perfect fits for our next stage of challenges and growth.” In addition to Hart’s appointment, the BDA has formed a new business development committee, chaired by BDA board member George Thomas, as part of the agency’s continued commitment to international business development through innovation, strategic partnerships and targeted marketing.
