Former director of Willis' Re Brazil takes up role.

Lloyd's has appointed Marco Antonio de Simas Castro as managing director, for its operation in Brazil.

Castro, who took up the position earlier this week, will be responsible for developing Lloyd's business in the region.

He was most recently Executive Director of Willis Reinsurance Brazil, and has 28 years of industry experience working for ITAU Insurance Company, Willis and VARIG Brazilian Airlines.

In a statement Lloyd's said he would assume responsibility for Lloyd's General Representative in Brazil in due course, subject to approval by the SUSEP, the Brazilian regulator.

Following Lloyd's successful application for admitted reinsurer status in Brazil in April, the role had been performed by Jorge Hilario Gouvea Viera, who will continue as Lloyd's representative.

Lloyd's Director International Markets and Business Development, Jose Riberio, welcomed the appointment. He said: "This appointment is a significant step for Lloyd's in developing its presence in the Latin American market. Marco has fantastic industry and local market experience and will play a key role in establishing our presence."