Ignite Specialty Risk announces four senior appointments

Litigation risk specialist Ignite Specialty Insurance has announced four new appointments across its executive and underwriting teams.

Ben Lim – previously a placing broker at Marsh – joins Ignite as portfolio manager. Meanwhile, Angus Eames, who joins from environmental law charity ClientEarth, and Matt Evans, who has been promoted from within, both assume the role of technical underwriter.

Finally, Tim Woodgett has been appointed as the firm’s chief of staff, a role in which he will be responsible for “strategic planning and delivery oversight across all offices, playing a pivotal role in driving international growth, supporting development across the UK, Europe and US”.

Woodgett joins from Mission Underwriters UK, where he held the role of client relationship director, and has previously held various leadership positions at firms including Hiscox, MS Amlin and Liberty Specialty Markets.

Long-term vision

Jamie Molloy, head of ATE at Ignite Specialty Risk, said: “These appointments are clear indicators of the momentum that enables us to continue to invest in our people and our long-term vision.

“By expanding our team across the board with experienced professionals in management and underwriting roles, as well as leveraging our current achievements, we can advance our UK and EU strategy and provide enhanced value to our brokers and offer best-in-class advice to insureds.”

Commenting on the chief of staff appointment, Byron Sumner, chief executive at Ignite Specialty Risk, said: “Woodgett’s proven track record in driving business evolution and growth within the insurance industry will be invaluable as we pursue our global ambitions.

“His expertise and leadership will provide the backbone to our operations and support the continued delivery of first-rate service to the market.”