Axis Capital Holdings Limited, the Bermudian-based global specialty underwriter, has created two new leadership positions within its specialty insurance business.

Mark Gregory has been appointed as head of global markets and Michael J McKenna has been hired and appointed as head of North America.

They will report directly to Vince Tizzio, president and chief executive officer of Axis.

Mr Tizzio said: “Mark and Mike are exceptional leaders who embody our focus on underwriting and operational excellence.

“Their leadership will be essential as we help Axis realise its full potential as a specialty underwriter that consistently delivers profitable results to our shareholders, and value to our customers.

“To achieve this, we’re tapping into our heritage as a high performing underwriting company known for the knowledge and subject-matter expertise of our people, as well as the high level of service that we provide to our customers.”

As head of global markets, Mr Gregory – who previously served as chief executive of the international division – will oversee underwriting and business growth strategies for the company’s international retail business lines (EMEA/APAC/LatAm), as well as its global practices including cyber and accident and health insurance.

Mr McKenna will have oversight of underwriting and business growth strategies for the company’s North America wholesale and retail businesses. Global distribution (insurance) and digital will also report to him.

Prior to joining Axis, he held chief underwriting officer roles with Falvey Insurance Group, The Hartford, and Navigators, and served as senior vice-president of the specialty reinsurance division at Aon Benfield.