Ascot Underwriting makes key Singapore Appointments

2007-03-27

Ascot Underwriting has added expertise and experience to its new Ascot Asia operation in Singapore with key appointments.

Alex Lumby will join in early May as Chief Underwriter and Principal Officer, subject to approval from Lloyd’s and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), while Min Ong will join in June to underwrite on the energy and property accounts.

These appointments follow that of Arran Wooler, underwriting on the marine account, and Michelle Chan as Office Manager. Jason Keen, Deputy Class Underwriter of Ascot’s global property unit, has also been seconded from the London office to help spearhead Ascot Asia’s expansion.

Ascot Asia is Ascot’s first overseas expansion on its direct account initially writing property, cargo, hull, energy and terrorism business from premises at One George Street, within close proximity of Lloyd’s Asia.

Alex has been with Benfield Corporate Risk for the last 18 months where he led their successful launch into Australia and the Asia Pacific region, prior to which he was a Senior Vice President and Managing Principal with Marsh, responsible for their Pacific region Energy Practice.

Min is currently a Senior Manager in the Energy team at Allianz Global Risk in Singapore, with nearly 20 years’ experience in the international insurance and reinsurance markets. /p>

Arran was formerly Divisional Director with Willis Limited responsible for developing marine business in the Asia Pacific region, and with previous cargo underwriting experience in the Lloyd’s market.

“I am delighted to welcome Alex, Min and Michelle to the company,” said Ascot Chief Executive Martin Reith.

“These are exciting appointments for us and Alex’s extensive network of contacts in the region will strengthen our presence and build on the excellent work that Arran is currently doing on the marine side. I have absolute confidence that under Alex’s leadership our office in Singapore will become a significant market in South East Asia.

“We are very pleased with the team we have assembled and we now have the innovative and entrepreneurial depth we have been aiming for in such an important regional trading hub.”