MGA brings in seasoned cyber leader to build new unit

Rokstone has launched a dedicated cyber division as it looks to strengthen its specialty footprint and expand into what it described as one of the market’s most strategically important commercial lines.

The MGA also confirmed the appointment of Debbie Hobbs, an experienced cyber leader with two decades of legal, claims and underwriting experience. Hobbs will join in 2026 and lead the new arm.

Hobbs previously served as head of cyber tech and media at Miller and spent five years as London practice cyber and technology lead at Ryan Specialty Group’s Emergin Risk, where she handled global large and complex cyber risks. A qualified lawyer, she also worked for law firms DWF and Clyde and Co.

Under Hobbs’ direction, the new cyber unit will build out propositions designed to address both traditional exposures and emerging risks linked to artificial intelligence (AI), supply-chain interconnectivity and operational technology.

Foundational line of business

Rokstone said the decision to establish a cyber division was a step in its strategy to expand its specialty capabilities as global demand for commercial cyber cover rises.

UK insurers paid out a record £197m in cyber claims to businesses in 2024, a 230% increase from the previous year, according to new ABI data.

Ian Anson, global chief executive at Rokstone, said cyber risk had become “foundational to every modern insurance programme”.

He continued: “Launching a cyber unit and welcoming Hobbs on board early next year strengthens our diversified portfolio, supports cross-class collaboration and positions us for sustainable, profitable growth in this line.”

Rokstone currently underwrites £1.1bn of global gross written premium across classes, including property, marine, aviation, agriculture, construction and engineering, professional indemnity and directors’ and officers’ insurance.

The MGA said the new division would give it the cyber underwriting capabilities needed to support brokers and insureds seeking more configurable protection as threat activity escalates and regulatory expectations tighten.