David White is to become head of Aviation, Axis Global Markets, on October 1.

Mr White will succeed Terry Wood, who has decided to retire at the end of September.

One of Axis’ earliest team members, the company said, Mr Wood has enjoyed a 22-year tenure with the firm.

The company said Mr White joined Axis in 2020 and has since been a key member of the aviation leadership team in the position of head of Airline and Aerospace after his time at various insurers as well as broker firm Aon, where he was head broker for Aerospace and Airline.

“Today we are announcing a change in leadership of our aviation division — a bittersweet moment as we bid farewell to Terry Wood, one of our longest-serving leaders,” said Mark Gregory, head of Global Markets, Axis.

“Terry is a trusted and well-respected leader in the aviation market. Not only has he grown our aviation portfolio and team from a standing start, he also led the successful integration of Aviabel into the Axis family. He is leaving a legacy of a thriving aviation insurance business and team.”

Mr Gregory added: “I am very pleased to appoint David White as head of Aviation. David has extensive experience within both the insurer and broker aviation market and has established himself as a key part of our aviation business with a sharp customer focus. He will be responsible for the continued growth of our aviation business in the UK, Europe, and Bermuda.”