Sompo pursues European growth with German hires

Bermuda-based specialty P&C re/insurer Sompo International has appointed Eric J Kox as country manager for its operations in Germany. He was previously with AIG Europe and before that with ACE Insurance.

The appointment is part of Sompo’s strategy to expand its business in Europe. Kox will join Susanne Adam, previously at Marsh, who started earlier this month.

Julian James, CEO of international insurance for Sompo, said: “The expansion of our specialty offering in Europe, and particularly Germany, is an important strategic part of Sompo International’s plan for growth. Drawing on our strengths from around the world, I believe we have a lot to offer clients and brokers here – financial strength, expertise in underwriting, a healthy risk appetite and a long-term partner approach.”

Thomas Brazil, CEO for Sompo International’s European entity, said: “Sompo International has had a presence in Germany for over 30 years through our Japanese interest accounts as well as our Professional Lines team. We understand the market and will build on this foundation to bring a broader specialty offering including accident and health, crisis management, energy/renewables, general aviation and marine to Germany.

“Eric’s experience is perfectly suited to develop our German operation and collaborate across our organisation to bring the full capabilities of Sompo International together for the benefit of clients and brokers.”

Brazil added: “I’m also pleased that we continue to strengthen our Professional Lines team in Germany with the addition of Susanne Adam, who joined us earlier this month, reporting to Udo Puetzer, under whose leadership we have made substantial progress in the last two and half years since we launched professional lines in the country. I wish both Eric and Susanne much success in their new roles.”