Canopius nabs AXA XL Asian specialty head for new specialty role
Global specialty re/insurer Canopius has plucked AXA XL Asian specialty head for a new role atop its global speciality underwriting.
Mark Houghton (pictured) has been appointed to the newly created role of global product leader, specialty. He will take up the position in October and oversee the governance, performance and standards of Canopius’ specialty underwriting lines across the business. The company said the appointment follows a slew of senior hires in 2024 for Canopius.
Houghton will also be responsible for product development and innovation and establishing Canopius’ global risk appetite for specialty lines. He will report directly to group chief underwriting officer Sam Harrison.
Houghton has over 20 years of experience. He joins Canopius from AXA XL where he led the political risk team for over a decade before being appointed head of specialty in Asia.
Harrison said: “2024 will be another milestone year for Canopius as we look to build on a record 2023. To realise our continued growth ambitions, we’re expanding our global underwriting structure to help us innovate and develop products in line with our strategic objectives and risk appetite. Having someone responsible for product innovation and development globally from our base in Singapore reflects our growing footprint across the world.
“Mark is perfectly suited to this new role with his incredibly valuable experience. I’m delighted to welcome him to the team.”
Houghton said: “Canopius is known for its collaborative approach, always going the extra mile for its clients and brokers. It’s a hugely exciting time to be joining the business and I look forward to helping cement Canopius’ status as a provider of practical solutions in the world’s leading specialty markets.”
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