Optio

The specialty MGA cited the recent contraction in the reinsurance treaty market as a reason for its loss of capacity but said it was in advanced discussions with other providers.

The appointment comes one year after David Robinson joined the firm in March 2022 as managing director.

Victoria Barrett will be responsible for building Optio’s financial lines proposition.

Tom Kennett was previously senior political violence underwriter at Munich Re and before that a political violence broker for several years.

Mark Butler will help Northcourt, Optio’s nuclear risk subsidiary, to raise its profile within government and the nuclear sector.

The group has hired two senior executives from Besso Re Middle East to run the operation.

The moves build out the MGA's W&I capabilities following the acquisition of W&I-focused MGA Brockwell Capital earlier this month.

Paul Western joined the business when the MGA group was in the early stages of formation in 2019.

It is understood that Ascent is currently in negotiations with a number of new potential lead markets.

David Robinson will work in a senior business management role and report to CEO Matthew Fosh.

The former managing director of the UK’s nuclear insurance pool joins the firm at a time of major change and growth potential in the niche market.