Aspen lures AXA XL exec as new reinsurance CUO

Aspen Insurance Holdings has lured an experienced executive from AXA XL to take the reins as its chief underwriting officer, reinsurance.

John Welch was most recently chief executive, domestic markets at AXA XL Re, where he led local reinsurance underwriting teams around the world. He previously held a number of senior roles at AXA XL, XL Catlin Group and XL Group.

Welch will report to Christian Dunleavy, group chief underwriting officer, join the group executive committee. He will be based in Stamford, CT.

Dunleavy said: “John is an excellent addition to the Aspen family. He is an established leader in the reinsurance industry with an impressive track record of building new businesses and driving profitable growth. John will play a crucial role driving Aspen’s ambitious agenda for its reinsurance segment.”

Welch said: “I am impressed by the quality and expertise of Aspen’s team and the strong results of Aspen and its reinsurance segment. The business is at an exciting point, and I look forward to working with Aspen Re’s customers on their risk management challenges.”