Liberty Specialty Markets announces new UK and MENA chief underwriting officer

Liberty Specialty Markets (LSM) has promoted Henry Nelson to the role of chief underwriting officer for the UK and Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

In this role, Nelson will oversee underwriting and ensure operations are equipped to meet industry challenges.

He will report to Luis Prato, president of UK and MENA, as well as Ronald Bolaños, group chief underwriting officer at LSM.

Prato said: ”[Nelson’s] in-depth understanding of our business strategy, combined with his cross-functional experience and strong relationships across the business, will be essential as we continue to grow and future proof our operations in the UK and MENA region.”

He will succeed Mel O’Neill, who is set to retire at the end of this year.

Nelson will begin transitioning into his new role over the coming weeks with the help of O’Neill. The new appointee will officially take up the post from January 2025.

Prato said: “We also extend our sincere gratitude to O’Neill for her 21 years of exceptional service at Liberty.

”Her commitment to excellence and strong leadership have laid robust foundations upon which [Nelson] will build, ensuring we maintain our focus on delivering exceptional service in the UK and MENA region.”

Experience

Nelson has been working at LSM for more than 11 years, with him joining as an underwriter in August 2013.

His most recent role was chief of staff, which he took up in October 2022.

He joined LSM from Aon, where served in the crisis management team.

Prato said: “His perspectives will strengthen our ability to deliver value for our clients, brokers and our Liberty teams.”