Axa XL

Duties will include setting strategic direction in marine, aerospace, and specialty niche lines.

The appointment follows the resignations of Shaun Russ and Ian Davidson.

The resignations will see Russ and Davidson reunited with fellow Axa XL alumnus Mark Hutton, who joined Tokio Marine HCC as head of crisis management last year.

Ashwell is widely regarded as one of the architects of the standalone terrorism market that emerged after 9/11.

The carrier is targeting the line of business as part of a wider strategic push in international insurance.

Mike Gosselin steps into the role vacated by Luis Prato, who left the carrier earlier this year to join LSM.

Canopius will write a 2.5% line on the multi-class facility, while Axa XL will write 1%.

It is understood that Hutton has resigned from his previous role as global product head of product recall at Axa XL after six years with the carrier.

Sources voiced some disappointment in the rate reduction but acknowledged the improved loss record of the contract.

Adias Gerbaud will be responsible for developing underwriting strategies, optimising product offerings and driving profitability for Axa XL in Europe, Asia and Australia.

At an event that brought together construction insurers, brokers, engineers and developers, delegates discussed an impasse over insuring sustainable development projects.

Based in New York, the executive will report to Axa XL CUO Libby Benet.