Ian Burford, formerly with Novae, has joined Bermudian-based Fidelis Insurance’s London underwriting team.

He will become chairman of specialised risks from Monday.

Mr Burford has more than 30 years of experience in the London insurance market, and he will focus on identifying opportunities to expand specialised products in insurance and reinsurance, including MGA start-ups. He will also write treaty reinsurance including property for Fidelis Underwriting Limited where complementary to the North American and international business written by Fidelis Insurance Bermuda Limited.

Mr Burford left Novae in May, where he had been since 1998, most recently as underwriting performance director. He began as deputy underwriter for Novae’s Syndicate 1241 and then Syndicate 2007, and was promoted to joint active underwriter of the group in 2011. He also served as a director of Novae Syndicates Limited.

Dan Burrows, UK chief executive officer, said: “We are pleased to welcome someone of Ian’s calibre and expertise to our underwriting team. His knowledge of the market and emerging needs will be invaluable as we continue our strategy of identifying and attracting specialist underwriting talent with innovative and closely defined products.”

Mr Burford added: “I look forward to joining the Fidelis underwriting team, and continuing to build their specialised book. Their opportunistic and highly responsive approach is key to success in today’s market.”