Canopius hires specialty global product leader from AXA XL

Re/insurer Canopius has tapped AXA XL for a specialty underwriter to be its global product leader for specialty lines. He will be based in Singapore will take up the position in October.   

Mark Houghton, who was previously head of Specialty in Asia for AXA XL, will oversee the governance, performance and standards of Canopius’ specialty underwriting lines across the business.

Canopius said he will also be responsible for product development and innovation as well as establishing the company's risk appetite for specialty lines across the globe. He will report directly to group chief underwriting officer Sam Harrison.

He has more than 20 years’ insurance and wider financial services experience. He led AXA XL's political risk team for over a decade before his last role.

Canopius has operations in Singapore, London, the US and Bermuda, where it has a Class 4 reinsurer. 

Harrison said: “2024 will be another milestone year for Canopius as we look to build on a record 2023. To realise our continued growth ambitions, we’re expanding our global underwriting structure to help us innovate and develop products in line with our strategic objectives and risk appetite. 

"Having someone responsible for product innovation and development globally from our base in Singapore reflects our growing footprint across the world.

“Mark is perfectly suited to this new role with his incredibly valuable experience. I’m delighted to welcome him to the team.”

Houghton said: “Canopius is known for its collaborative approach, always going the extra mile for its clients and brokers. It’s a hugely exciting time to be joining the business and I look forward to helping cement Canopius’ status as a provider of practical solutions in the world’s leading specialty markets.”

Did you get value from this story? Sign up to our free daily newsletters and get stories like this sent straight to your inbox.