HDI Global expands into London marine market with senior AXA XL hire

Specialty lines insurer  HDI Global Specialty SE has entered the marine hull and machinery London market with the hiring of a senior underwriter from AXA XL, as it looks to take advantage of the “upbeat” market conditions. The move comes less than a week after  HDI Global acquired Hannover Re’s 49.8 percent stake in  HDI Global Specialty, taking its share up to 100 percent.

Michelle Boyd (pictured) has over 20 years’ insurance market experience, covering both broking and underwriting roles and joins the specialty lines insurer from AXA XL, where she was senior marine and hull underwriter.

The company will offer coverage to vessel owners, managers, charterers and financiers, including freight and total loss interests, shipbuilding and conversion risks, loss of earnings and war risks for physical loss or damage and collision liability.

HDI Global Specialty SE UK managing director Richard Taylor said: “The London marine market remains one of the key global centres for marine insurance and market conditions remain upbeat. Bringing Michelle in has enabled us to continue our growth strategy and add to our specialty lines portfolio.”

Boyd added: “ HDI Global Specialty takes a long-term approach to clients and broker partnerships and has a strong reputation in the market. I’m looking forward to leading their London market move into Marine Hull and Machinery insurance.”

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