Optio taps insider to expand political violence and terrorism book in UK

London-based specialty MGA  Optio Group has appointed a new UK head of political violence and terrorism (PVT) and tripled its line size for single risks to $150 million.

Mark Kelsey will lead the PVT business in the UK. He joined Optio as senior underwriter in 2020, and in September last relocated to establish the company’s PVT underwriting capabilities in the US.

As part of a range of developments to meet heightened PVT demand in Western Europe and North America, Optio has increased its single-risk line size for active assailant and workplace violence to $15 million, citing a “significant increase” in civil disturbance, riots and active shooter events.

Chris Kirby, global head of political Optio’s PVT portfolio, said: “I’m extremely pleased to welcome Mark to his new role where he will be an even greater asset as Optio pursues its strategic growth ambitions. After establishing a physical presence for PVT underwriting in the US last year, the combined effect of that plus the general increase in civil unrest has created a surge in demand.

“The developments announced today are part of range of measures designed to meet that demand and to support brokers and insureds facing considerable challenges posed by the dynamic and fast-changing PVT risk environment.”

Matthew Fosh, executive chairman, Optio Group, added: “The material enlargement of our PVT book, together with the recent acquisitions of Northcourt and Brockwell Capital, have advanced Optio’s growth strategy across a suite of core specialty lines. We are delighted at the team’s success in re-engineering our PVT proposition, having recently expanded our PVT presence into the US specifically to meet growing market demand.”

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