’His proven leadership, strategic acumen and deep industry knowledge make him the ideal individual,’ says chair

John Fowle will join Lloyd’s of London specialist insurer Atrium as its new chief executive.

Fowle announced in a statement earlier this week (6 June 2023) that he would step down as chief executive of (re)insurance company Chaucer to pursue new opportunities.

Today (8 June 2023), Atrium confirmed Fowle would be joining the business as its top boss once he has fulfilled his notice responsibilities to Chaucer.

Chris Stooke, chair of Atrium, said: “On behalf of the board, I’d like to extend a very warm welcome to John as the new chief executive of Atrium.

“John’s proven leadership, strategic acumen and deep industry knowledge make him the ideal individual to lead us into our next chapter of growth.”

Succession

Fowle will replace Richard Harries, who will step down on 30 June 2023 after deciding to retire.

Harries has agreed to serve as an adviser to the business and shareholders.

“There are many decisions one makes in their working life, but undoubtedly my greatest was to join the team at Atrium Syndicate 609 back in 1997,” he said.

“They were bright, hardworking, well led and fun and had also delivered a run of unbroken profitable results.

“Some 26 years later, the last nine of which I have had the honour of being group chief executive, Atrium remains a fantastic business, affording staff with great opportunities for personal development and encouraging them to thrive.”

Fowle added: “I am looking forward to joining Atrium with great excitement and hope to help the business build further on the market leading underwriting performance delivered under Richard’s leadership.”

Changes

James Lee, Atrium’s current chief operating officer and agency managing director, will succeed Richard Harries as acting chief executive until Fowle joins the business.

As part of changes to the business, James Cox has been appointed managing director and James Smith will take up the role of compliance officer.

Harries added: “I will look back with greater pride on the outstanding group of individuals we have put together at Atrium and it is them, under the leadership of James Lee and then John Fowle, who will now ensure the Atrium light continues to shine brightly in the London insurance market.”

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