Castel underwriting will focus on niche books of business

A new club-style managing general agency (MGA) has been launched in London led by former Wildnet chief executive Mark Birrell.

Castel Underwriting will focus on serving the London market, as well as wider insurance sectors providing niche and specialist books of business, subject to Financial Conduct Authority approval.

Underwriter members will be able to generate a significant stake in individual MGA business cells with a direct link between their account profitability and personal remuneration.

Members of Castel can also achieve full independence if they desire to leave Castel through a number of buy-out or earn-out arrangements.

New Castel chief executive Birrell said: “When we began developing the Castel model we kept asking the same question – why would you launch an MGA business alone when you can join forces and share knowledge and ideas with other insurance entrepreneurs? The result was the creation of the Castel collaborative club to make great MGA underwriting cells happen quickly and without stress.”

“Castel will provide all the services resources and regulatory support required to enable underwriters to really focus on trading. Members will also be working alongside other industry experts who can help to smooth out any sticky moments encountered along the way.”

The 2025 Insurance Times Awards took place on the evening of Wednesday 3rd December in the iconic Great Room of London’s Grosvenor House.

Hosted by comedian and actor Tom Allen, 34 Gold, 23 Silver and 22 Bronze awards were handed out across an amazing 34 categories recognising brilliance and innovation right across the breadth of UK general insurance.
Many congratulations to all the worthy winners and as always, huge thanks to our sponsors for their support and our judges for their expertise.