Introduction
Alchemy enters a new phase of global growth within NTT DATA’s global insurance practice, evolving our leadership structure and operations to position the company for the scale and opportunities ahead. This progression will ensure Alchemy can operate confidently on a global stage while staying true to our founding mission of delivering technology-driven excellence and creating meaningful careers.
Today, we are pleased to announce the following leadership developments, effective on 1 January 2026:
John Harkin takes on an expanded global role within NTT DATA
John Harkin has stepped into the global role of Managing Director, Integration and Growth – Global Insurance at NTT DATA,Inc. where he will drive integration and growth initiatives across the wider NTT DATA organisation, expanding far beyond the original Alchemy remit. To support Alchemy’s continued momentum and ensure a scalable integration, John will also serve as the global representative for NTT DATA’s partnership with Guidewire, with a particular focus on Japan.
As the founder of Alchemy and an ongoing board member, John remains connected to the company’s direction. He will continue to champion Alchemy’s growth as a strategic Global Centre of Excellence, while promoting the North West of Ireland as a key region for future investment within NTT DATA Global Insurance. His leadership will ensure that Alchemy’s founding mission of supporting socio-economic impact in the region remains at the heart of its evolution.
John Taylor steps into the role of CEO of Alchemy
The continuation of Alchemy’s global expansion as part of NTT DATA sees John Taylor step into the role of CEO of Alchemy.
John will lead Alchemy’s global growth as one of NTT DATA’s Global Centre of Excellence. His leadership will further scale its specialist capabilities across Guidewire and the Global Specialty Markets, strengthen client and market presence, grow talent, and ensure alignment with NTT DATA’s global insurance strategy.
John has played a founding role in shaping the company’s culture, delivery excellence, and market reputation. His deep belief in Alchemy’s mission and strong leadership track record makes him the natural fit to guide the company as we expand globally, replicating the Alchemy model in new regions without diluting our unique approach that has been key to our success to date.
John Harkin, Managing Director, Integration and Growth – Global Insurance at NTT DATA, Inc. and Alchemy Board Member, said:
“Since founding Alchemy, our mission has been to deliver exceptional outcomes for clients while creating meaningful and sustainable careers. In this expanded global role, I’m committed to deepening our global Guidewire capabilities within NTT DATA’s Global Insurance Practice, building new global insurance offerings and driving further growth and investment in the region. I’m proud to support the next chapter of NTT DATA’s global insurance growth and continuing to build on Alchemy’s success.”
John Taylor, Alchemy's newly appointed CEO, said:
“Alchemy has always been defined by the strength of its people, our collaborative culture and the quality of its delivery. As we take our model to the global stage, my focus is on expanding our capability, strengthening our market presence, and creating opportunities for our people to grow. This next stage is about amplifying what makes us unique, now supported by the global reach of NTT DATA, and opening an exciting new chapter for Alchemy and our people.”
Bruno Abril, Head of Global Insurance at NTT DATA, Inc. and Chairman at Alchemy, said:
“Alchemy is a critical part of NTT DATA’s global insurance strategy. John Harkin and John Taylor bring exceptional leadership, deep industry expertise, and a shared commitment to quality and people-first delivery. The evolution of the leadership structure positions Alchemy to scale globally while continuing to play a key role in our global capability development.”
These leadership changes mark an important step in Alchemy's evolution toward its next phase of global growth. This structure provides the leadership focus we need as we align more closely with NTT DATA’s global insurance strategy and operate at a global scale.