Vanessa Powell will join Castel’s aerospace cell Altitude Risk Partners

Vaness powell

Castel Underwriting has hired its first claims manager, former Mitsui Sumitomo aviation claims manager Vanessa Powell.

Powell, who has worked in aviation claims for over 30 years, has previously worked in a number of Lloyd’s and London market underwriting firms.

Castel chief executive Mark Birrell said: “Vanessa’s appointment is another important step in our development and it increases the level of expertise available in our growing number of cells.”

She will be working for Altitude Risk Partners (ARP), Castel’s new aerospace cell and will also be joining Castel’s executive committee.

Birrell added: “Vanessa’s experience in aviation claims will benefit the growth of ARP.”

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.