Asta refreshes managing agency board with leadership moves

Lloyd’s third-party managing agent  Asta has refreshed its managing agency board with a number of key appointments in an effort to bring fresh external perspective and advisory capabilities to the business.

Seema Bradbury has been appointed as new chief risk officer, and Liz Catchpole as an independent non-executive director and chair of the audit committee.

Asta said these appointments follow a number of changes made to the board late last year in line with long term succession planning.

Having spent more than 20 years in the London market, Bradbury joins Asta from AXIS, where she was group risk director and chief risk officer of the managing agency. Prior to that, Bradbury has held a variety of roles in the Lloyd’s and London market including at Lloyd’s, Beazley, ArgoGlobal and Miller. Bradbury will be part of Asta’s executive team, leading the business and with specific responsibility for the leadership and development of the risk management function.

Catchpole was appointed to Asta’s board in January 2023 and, subject to regulatory approval, will be appointed chair of the audit committee. A certified chartered accountant, Catchpole brings to the role more than 20 years of executive board level experience gained primarily in the insurance, outsourcing and property sectors. She is also an independent non-executive director and audit chair at Investec Wealth and Investment; independent non-executive director, senior independent director, and audit chair of GBG; and independent chairman of TP Bennett. She was previously non-executive director and chair of audit at British Gas Insurance and British Gas Services.

Catchpole will replace the current audit committee chair, Andrew Hubbard, who has held the role for nine years.

Lorraine Harfitt, chief executive officer of Asta, said: “We are delighted to welcome both Seema and Liz to Asta. Seema will be a fantastic addition to the executive team. Her excellent leadership skills, and expertise in risk management as well as her recent involvement in culture and ESG initiatives will be of immense value to both us and our clients. Liz will also be a great addition to the board. She is a highly experienced non-executive director, and her fresh external perspective and advisory capabilities will prove invaluable to the business. Following a number of board changes made last year, these appointments will add further strength as we look to continue to grow and develop Asta.”

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