W. R. Berkley Appoints Christopher L. Moede as President of Berkley Risk
By Lauren Towner · 31 July 2026
In brief: W. R. Berkley Corporation has appointed Christopher L. Moede as President of Berkley Risk, succeeding Jack Goodwin, who becomes Chairman. Moede brings 20+ years of commercial insurance experience.
| New President | Christopher L. Moede |
|---|---|
| New Chairman | John M. Goodwin |
| Experience Level | 20+ years |
| Effective Date | Immediately |

Quick Summary
W. R. Berkley Corporation has appointed Christopher L. Moede as the new President of Berkley Risk, effective immediately. Moede, a veteran with over 20 years of experience in commercial insurance leadership, succeeds Jack Goodwin, who transitions to the role of Chairman to ensure strategic continuity for the firm.
How does Christopher L. Moede’s appointment impact Berkley Risk?
The appointment of Christopher L. Moede brings a wealth of commercial insurance leadership to Berkley Risk. With over 20 years of experience, Moede most recently spearheaded a global underwriting segment for a major multinational insurer, positioning him to drive growth in alternative risk management.
- Strategic Leadership: Moede focuses on developing sophisticated risk solutions for a diverse client base.
- Market Expertise: His background in global underwriting enhances the firm's technical capabilities.
- Continuity: Outgoing president Jack Goodwin remains as Chairman to provide institutional knowledge.
What services does Berkley Risk provide to the market?
Berkley Risk operates as a specialized third-party administrator and program manager, catering to groups that require alternative risk insurance. They serve a wide array of clients, including public entity pools and professional associations, ensuring tailored coverage for complex needs.
- Claims Management: Nationwide handling of workers’ compensation, liability, and property claims.
- Program Management: Specialized services for at-risk and self-insured clients.
- Global Reach: Backed by the infrastructure of W. R. Berkley Corporation, one of the largest U.S. commercial lines writers.
FF NEWS TAKE:
This leadership transition at Berkley Risk signals a calculated move to inject fresh commercial insurance leadership while retaining veteran expertise. By moving Jack Goodwin to Chairman and bringing in Moede’s global underwriting pedigree, W. R. Berkley is reinforcing its commitment to the alternative risk insurance sector. This move definitely moves the needle by ensuring the firm remains competitive in a hardening commercial market through seasoned, high-level executive talent.
Frequently asked questions
Who is the new President of Berkley Risk?
Christopher L. Moede is the new President of Berkley Risk. He was appointed by W. R. Berkley Corporation in July 2026, bringing over 20 years of leadership experience in the commercial insurance market to the role.
What happened to the former President of Berkley Risk, Jack Goodwin?
John “Jack” M. Goodwin has been named Chairman of Berkley Risk. He previously served as President since 2014 and will continue to contribute to the business in his new capacity as Chairman.
What services does Berkley Risk offer?
Berkley Risk provides at-risk and alternative risk insurance program management. As a third-party administrator, they manage workers’ compensation, liability, and property claims nationwide for public entities and professional associations.
About the companies
Berkley-Risk
Berkley Re America LLC
Part of W. R. Berkley · Website
Companies in this story: Berkley Re America LLC, Berkley-Risk
People in this story: Christopher L. Moede, W. Robert Berkley, Jr., John M. Goodwin