Ascot, the Bermudian-based global specialty insurance company, has launched a Marine & Energy Treaty reinsurance business on the island.

It will be led by newly appointed Alex Kirkby, senior vice-president, head of Marine & Energy, Bermuda, and supported by Emma Foxley, vice-president, Marine and Energy, Bermuda.

The company said Mr Kirkby had joined Ascot with more than a decade of experience in the Marine & Energy space, with significant time spent on both the broker and carrier sides of the business.

He is well-known in the market, most recently working as vice-president at Validus Reinsurance, responsible for underwriting Marine, Energy and Composite business. Before Validus, he spent time at both PartnerRe and Willis Re.

Ms Foxley joins from Lancashire Insurance Group, where she worked as an underwriter in their Specialty Reinsurance segment.

Before Lancashire, Ms Foxley worked as a portfolio analyst at Markel CATCo Investment Management. She has spent her insurance career in Bermuda.

Simon Kimberley, chief underwriting officer, Property, Ascot Bermuda, said: “I am delighted to welcome Alex and Emma as we augment our Marine and Energy offerings at Ascot.

“Alex and Emma’s combined expertise, experience and strong broker and client connections will complement our existing group relationships and capabilities.

“Ascot has long been regarded as a leader in the Marine sector and this strategic expansion into Marine & Energy Treaty business underscores our continued commitment to the space.”

Mr Kirkby added: “Ascot is a company that is centred around underwriting excellence, collaboration and an entrepreneurial culture.

“I am delighted to join their team of dedicated industry professionals and bring my knowledge and leadership experience to the company’s Bermuda platform to launch the Marine & Energy Treaty portfolio alongside Emma Foxley.

“With this new business capability, Ascot will continue to support and strengthen its excellent value proposition for both our clients and brokers.”