StarStone launches underwriting capability in Australia

Insurer StarStone has hired Robin Barham, a former Lloyd’s executive, to lead its new underwriting capability in Australia.

The capability will operate alongside Enstar’s existing Australian operation.

Barham will target specialty business emanating from Australia and New Zealand on behalf of Lloyd’s Syndicate 1301.

Through Syndicate 1301, StarStone will offer a range of marine, property, casualty and specialty products for small and middle market to multinational accounts.

It will also provide direct access to those classes for brokers in the Australasian region.

Barham has more than 28 years of insurance experience from working at Lloyd’s in London and with Catlin in Sydney, and has underwriting and management experience across a broad range of classes.

He has also set up a digital underwriting agency, Agile Underwriting Services, and led the Arch Syndicate’s operation in Australia as its regional director.

Demian Smith, chief executive officer (CEO) of StarStone International, said: “The ability to offer our products locally in the Asia-Pacific region is key to our growth strategy. Our majority parent, Enstar, has had a presence in the Australasian market since 2008, and the opening of an underwriting operation signals our continued commitment to the region and to supporting Lloyd’s in pursuing its 2025 vision.

“Robin brings with him an impressive network of relationships, and has the business-building experience and technical expertise to help bolster StarStone’s capabilities in Australia.”

Barham added: “Australia is a highly sophisticated and mature market, with a wealth of talented underwriters. We see exciting opportunities to increase the depth of StarStone’s current product offerings and to provide a tailored local service to existing and future clients.”