Westfield Specialty makes senior hire as it launches reinsurance division

Westfield Specialty International has launched a new reinsurance division and appointed Chris Gray as its divisional director.

Westfield said that a ”refreshed and expanded reinsurance offering is an important element” of its long-term strategy for growth and that Gray “is the person to deliver that for our business”.

Gray, who will be based in London, joins with over 20 years of underwriting experience in the reinsurance market. He previously held senior roles at Axis, Swiss Re and Canopius Group.

In his new role, he will report to Jeremy Shallow, chief underwriting officer at Westfield Specialty International.

Thoughts on the appointment

Graham Evans, chief executive at Westfield Specialty International, said Gray’s experience would be instrumental in developing the firm’s reinsurance proposition.

“His reinsurance leadership experience has provided him with vast knowledge and expertise that will be a valuable addition to us as we continue to drive the business forward,” he said. 

Evans added that Westfield’s mutual structure allows it to “focus on long-term profitable growth strategies while attracting and retaining outstanding underwriters”.

Shallow added: “The journey that Westfield is on is an exciting one and I am looking forward to Gray getting started.

”The specialty reinsurance market remains one with potential for growth.”