Catlin is backing a new managing general agency, Aro Underwriting, which is launching today to focus on the UK and European schemes and affinity market.

The MGA is the creation of casualty underwriter James Bright, who has experience in London, the UK regions and Europe.

Bright, who is the son of former Independent chief executive Michael Bright, will become chief underwriting officer.

The MGA will offer regional brokers a range of specialist property and casualty products.

Bright said: “Aro has been nearly 12 months in the planning and I am delighted that we have been able to bring together a team of like-minded professionals with a vision to be the leading underwriter and facilitator of schemes and affinity business in Europe.”

Aro has appointed Martin Gray as chairman, who has been involved in the London insurance market for over forty years.

Gray said: “I am thrilled to be part of this exciting new venture and look forward to working with James to build a team of underwriting and business development experts who can help brokers with new and existing schemes. This is an under-served market and we plan to offer brokers a high quality solution for schemes and affinity connections.”

Ian Page is appointed property underwriting manager, who brings significant underwriting experience in both London and regional property business.

Page shall be joining later this Summer, as the first of a number of appointments to be made by Aro throughout 2011, on both underwriting and business development.

Based in the City of London, Aro is an authorised representative of the London marketinsurance service provider, Ambant Limited, who will provide full administration services. Steven Crabb, Ambant chief executive, has also joined the board.

Aro’s primary capacity comes from Catlin Insurance Company (UK) Ltd, one of the six international hubs of Catlin Group.