Ryan Specialty, an international specialty insurance firm, has announced several key leadership appointments within its international underwriting segment, Ryan Specialty Underwriting Managers International (RSUMI).
Ben Purkiss (pictured above) has been named head of business development for RSUMI, where he will focus on identifying new opportunities for Ryan Specialty’s international operations. Purkiss brings over a decade of experience in the UK and European insurance markets to the firm.
Graeme Rayner has taken up the role of chief underwriting officer for international, a newly created position. With nearly 30 years of experience in specialty insurance underwriting, Rayner will be responsible for overseeing underwriting protocols and governance for RSUMI’s international managing general underwriters (MGUs).
Additionally, Vicky Lefevre has been appointed senior vice president, head of HR International, another newly established role. Lefevre has more than 20 years of human resources experience within the insurance sector and will play a key role in managing HR functions for the firm’s international operations.
Mark Birrell, chief executive officer of RSUMI, highlighted the importance of these new hires for the company's growth.
“There is so much opportunity for RSUMI to grow and further service our clients and trading partners. I’m very excited for our future in the international marketplace with our talented and growing RSUMI team,” he said.
Ryan Specialty also highlighted that the new appointments are part of the company’s broader strategy to enhance its presence and capabilities within the global insurance sector.
Earlier this month, the global firm also announced that it completed its acquisition of certain Geo Underwriting Europe assets from British intermediary The Ardonagh Group.
Under the now completed deal, the European MGA will be integrated into the financial lines unit within the Ryan Specialty Underwriting Managers division of Ryan Specialty. The business is led by Walter Craft, who joined the executive committee at Ryan Financial Lines.
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