Bermudian-headquartered specialist global insurer Hiscox has appointed Matthew Wilken to the role of chief underwriting officer for Hiscox Re & ILS.

The company said Mr Wilken, who will be based in Bermuda, joins on Monday with responsibility for executing the Hiscox Re & ILS underwriting strategy, ensuring that the needs of clients and capital partners are successfully met to deliver long-term value for the business.

He will become a member of the Hiscox Re & ILS executive team and will report to Kathleen Reardon, CEO of Hiscox Re & ILS.

Before Hiscox, Mr Wilken was head of reinsurance at MS Amlin.

He spent his early career at Kiln Syndicate in a variety of underwriting roles, rising to deputy active underwriter for Kiln Reinsurance.

Mr Wilken joined Argo Re as chief underwriting officer of Argo Re Short Tail and later became president, before moving to Ariel Re as active underwriter S1910 and deputy global head of reinsurance.

Ms Reardon said: “Matthew has a deep reservoir of market cycle knowledge and his wealth of experience, gained both in London and Bermuda, will be invaluable as we navigate the evolving risk landscape.

“With his proven leadership skills and a strong market reputation, we are delighted to be further strengthening our underwriting and executive team.”

Mr Wilken added: “With rate momentum in our favour and a compelling strategy in place, it’s an exciting time to be joining Hiscox Re & ILS.

“I look forward to leading the talented team of underwriters and driving the reinsurance underwriting strategy forward.”