AmTrust draws AXA and Newline executives in London to help drive growth

AmTrust International, the global arm of New York-based property/casualty insurance group AmTrust Financial Services, has expanded its underwriting capabilities in London with two new hires from AXA and Newline.

David Smith (pictured left) joins the firm's warranty team in London as senior underwriter, and Callum Harding (pictured right) as assistant underwriter.

Smith, who has more than 30 years’ experience in the insurance industry, will be responsible for underwriting key accounts and developing relationships with AmTrust’s distribution partners. He will also contribute technical expertise to the team, especially in relation to the motor warranty business.

He most recently served as P&C insurance risk manager at AXA. Prior to that, he worked as warranty underwriting/pricing manager at Allianz, and at Motors Insurance Company.

Harding will be responsible for supporting the growth of the warranty portfolio, through direct management of accounts. He joins from Newline Underwriting Management, where he served as assistant underwriter in the affinity and special risks team.

The new hires follow overall profit growth in the financial year 2021, as well as acquisition of new client accounts.

Rob Sadler, head of warranty underwriting at AmTrust International, said: “I am delighted to welcome David and Callum to the Warranty team at AmTrust International. Both David and Callum bring with them experience in retail, commercial, and client relations that will prove critical to accelerating business growth. Their understanding of how warranty solutions can build positive customer engagement and service goals for manufacturers and retailers will be invaluable to the Warranty team and ultimately to our partners and customers.”

Bruce Whitmee, chief underwriting officer of AmTrust Europe, added: “AmTrust has always been committed to providing a best-in-class service to our partners and customers. During the pandemic we have continued to demonstrate a high level of service capability and client focus despite the challenges. The appointments of David and Callum will enable us to take our technical underwriting and customer service to the next level, whilst delivering sustainable growth across core product areas.”

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