Starwood Capital's Strategic Expansion with Rob Allard as CIO of Insurance Strategies

Starwood Capital Strengthens Its Investment Leadership

On May 8, 2025, Starwood Capital Group, a prominent player in global real estate and investment, announced the appointment of Rob Allard as the Chief Investment Officer of their newly formed Starwood Insurance Strategies. This strategic move marks a significant extension of the firm's existing credit platform into the realm of insurance investment.

Mr. Allard is set to leverage over 27 years of extensive experience in the finance sector, particularly in insurance markets, asset-backed finance, and private asset management. His track record is impressive, having held prominent positions that brought him deep insights and knowledge to enhance Starwood's capabilities in managing risk and returns effectively.

As a market leader, Starwood Capital Group boasts approximately $115 billion in assets under management and has established itself as a key player in various verticals, including Starwood Property Trust and Starwood Infrastructure Finance. The firm has successfully originated over $100 billion in credit investments since 2010, underscoring its influence within the industry.

Barry Sternlicht, the Chairman and CEO of Starwood Capital, commented on Mr. Allard's appointment, stating, "With Rob, we are well-positioned to deepen our long-standing relationships within the insurance industry. Our goal is to provide unparalleled access to our expertise in real assets and our acclaimed credit platform, which offers investors a tailored plug-and-play solution that aligns with their investment profiles."

Starwood Capital's extensive portfolio, comprising more than 15,000 managed properties worldwide, grants the firm insights and market access that few can rival. This competitive edge not only enhances their investment execution but also strengthens their ability to adapt to the evolving demands of clients. Jonathon Pollack, President of Starwood Capital, highlighted the company's large-scale platform designed specifically for the needs of insurance clients, noting that unlike many competitors, they do not have a captive client base, making Starwood an attractive partner for varying risk-return profiles.

Rob Allard expressed enthusiasm about joining such a prestigious firm, aiming to replicate his previous successes to develop a robust insurance asset management platform. His previous role at Rothesay Asset Management North America, where he served as Chief Investment Officer, equipped him with the necessary tools to fulfill this new challenge effectively.

Starwood Capital Group, since its inception in 1991, has raised over $80 billion in capital and is recognized for its adept management and responsive investment strategies across varying asset classes and markets. With a commitment to innovation and comprehensive client service, the firm remains a pillar in the world of real estate and private investments.

In addition to asset management, Starwood's affiliates boast proficiency in diverse areas, including property management, digital data strategy, and various consumer services, enhancing their overall investment capability. This depth of expertise, combined with Mr. Allard's leadership, positions Starwood Capital for future growth and development in the financial landscape.

As the firm embarks on this next chapter with Mr. Allard at the helm of its new insurance strategy, the investment community will be watching closely how this relationship fosters numerous opportunities and adaptations in the ever-evolving market.