Axa XL names Matt Waters head of large commercial and specialty

Axa XL has appointed Matt Waters (pictured) as head of its large commercial and specialty business unit, with responsibility for the insurer’s portfolio across the US, Canada and Bermuda.

Waters takes up the role with immediate effect, having joined Axa XL in 2022 to launch its Mid-Market business in the Americas.

He will focus on driving profitable growth, strengthening underwriting discipline, attracting talent and developing relationships with brokers and clients across North America.

Waters previously spent 25 years at Liberty Mutual, where he held senior leadership roles across property/casualty segments including construction and energy.

Axa XL said Waters’s mid-market leadership included building and expanding the team and product portfolio, with the business consistently exceeding growth expectations while maintaining underwriting discipline.

Jim DiVirgilio, Axa XL’s recently retired chief claims officer, will temporarily lead the mid-market team while the company searches for new leadership.

Lucy Pilko, Axa XL’s CEO, Americas, said: “Our Large Commercial and Specialty clients are navigating increasingly complex risks in a challenging insurance environment. Matt’s proven leadership in building successful businesses and teams, especially in expanding our Middle Market division, highlights his ability to drive strategy, strengthen relationships, and foster growth. He’s excited to leverage our talented Large Commercial and Specialty underwriting teams to support consistent disciplined underwriting and deliver valuable solutions to our clients and broker partners.” 

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