Santam Syndicate 1918 names new chief executive to lead next growth phrase

Santam Syndicate 1918 has appointed insurance market veteran Sam Geddes as chief executive as the Lloyd’s firm looks to accelerate its growth ambitions and strengthen its position in the London market.

Geddes joins the syndicate from MS Amlin, where he most recently served as deputy chief underwriting officer and head of reinsurance, partnerships and portfolio and exposure management.

His appointment comes less than two years after the launch of the syndicate and marks another step in parent company Santam Group’s efforts to expand its international footprint through Lloyd’s.

Based in London, Geddes will report to Gareth Beaver, chief executive at Santam Specialist Solutions, and will be responsible for leading the syndicate’s next phase of development.

Geddes said he was joining at a “pivotal moment” in the syndicate’s development.

He added: “I look forward to working closely with our brokers, clients and the wider team to strengthen our position at Lloyd’s and drive the next phase of growth, one that is firmly aligned with Santam Group’s broader strategic ambitions.”

Building momentum

The appointment follows a period of expansion for the syndicate, which has been building out its underwriting capabilities since launch.

Recent hires have included the appointment of Nigel Tatlock as head of property in April, with further recruitment expected throughout the year as the business continues to grow.

Geddes succeeds interim chief executive Rob Vetch, who will move into the role of chief financial officer after helping establish the syndicate during its launch phase.

Beaver said the appointment reflected the syndicate’s ambitions as it seeks to build on the momentum generated since entering the Lloyd’s market.

“The syndicate’s launch has been met with genuine enthusiasm across the market, which speaks to the strength of our proposition and the calibre of the team we have built.”

He added that Geddes’ experience and leadership credentials would be “invaluable” as the business entered its next stage of growth.