Canopius nabs WTW global leader/ex-Lloyd’s manager to drive ESG

Global specialty re/insurer  Canopius has hired a new head of sustainability from WTW to build out a “robust and effective” strategy and push ESG efforts at the business.

Canopius stated that its aim is to develop a “cohesive ESG strategy” that meets regulatory requirements, including a forward-looking responsible underwriting policy, a sustainable investment approach and a strategy to further develop a positive and inclusive culture.

Adhiraj Maitra (pictured), as group head of sustainability, will be responsible for Canopius Group’s ESG position worldwide. Maitra will report to Lindsay Astor, chief of staff and head of strategic development.

He joins Canopius from WTW where he was the global head of ESG and climate change, for the insurance consulting business. Prior to that, Maitra spent six years at Lloyd’s of London as senior manager, heading up the Syndicate Capital team and before that he was an actuarial non-life Advisor at KPMG. He also has prior experience in capital modelling and pricing.

Astor said: “Adhiraj’s experience in helping insurance companies create ESG propositions and drive strategic and innovative solutions to ensure a successful climate transition will provide immense value to Canopius as we build out a robust and effective ESG strategy.

“His deep understanding of analytics, underwriting and the regulatory environment makes him the perfect candidate to take on this newly created role. We are thrilled he is joining us to drive our business forward in this next critical phase of growth.”

Maitra added: “We are at a crucial juncture, where understanding the impact of the uncertainties around ESG and acting on it is it becoming a strategic and commercial priority for insurance companies. While there are many challenges faced by the industry, there are many opportunities as well.

“Innovation and collaboration across organisations and looking beyond a one-year horizon are some of the key factors that lead to commercial success and improved resilience. Canopius has demonstrated great leadership in this in recent years and its new leadership is demonstrating the insight, drive and ambition to take the business to the next exciting stage. I am delighted to be joining the Canopius family and to be part of this change over the next decade.”

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