AXIS Capital introduces two new roles

AXIS Capital Holdings (AXIS Capital), a Bermuda-based provider of specialty re/insurance, has appointed Michiko Kurahashi as chief marketing officer (CMO) and Joe Cohen as chief communications officer (CCO).

Kurahashi and Cohen will work together to build an integrated marketing communications function that further elevates the AXIS brand and deepens the firm’s engagement with its clients, partners and employees.

In the new role of CMO, Kurahashi will work closely with AXIS Capital’s three business units, AXIS Insurance, AXIS Reinsurance and AXIS Accident and Health, to guide and facilitate marketing strategies that are aligned with business objectives to drive growth.

Prior to AXIS Capital, Kurahashi served as senior consultant and acting chief marketing officer at CIT Bank.

Cohen, also serving in a new role, will guide communications strategy across the company. This includes helping to further refine AXIS Capital’s brand positioning, elevate its profile in traditional and social media, and enhance its internal communications.

“In Michiko and Joe, we have added highly seasoned marketing communications leaders who bring experience working with a diverse range of world class brands. As we grow the AXIS brand, we need to learn from the industries that are best at marketing on how to further connect and deepen our engagement with clients,” said Albert Benchimol, president and chief executive officer of AXIS Capital.

Benchimol added: “Today marketing is no longer just about brand development but it is also about seeking excellence in the experience that we provide to our clients. During this transformative time in our industry, Michiko and Joe will play an essential role in guiding AXIS into the future by introducing fresh thinking and innovative, data-driven approaches.”