Bermuda-based multi-line reinsurer Conduit Re’s ultimate parent company, Conduit Holdings, has announced the appointment of Mark Pickering, formerly of Aspen Insurance Holdings, to serve as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective November 30th, 2026.
Pickering will take over the CFO role from Elaine Whelan, who informed the Board of her intention to retire in the third quarter earlier this year.
He brings more almost 25 years of reinsurance industry experience to the reinsurer, and will join the Board of Conduit Holdings as an Executive Director. As CFO, Pickering will be responsible for collaborating on the firm’s strategy, leading its capital management activities, and financial reporting, as well as oversight of Conduit’s investment portfolio.
He joins Conduit after 11 years with Bermuda-based insurer and reinsurer Aspen Insurance Holdings, where he most recently served as Group CFO and Treasurer. Prior to this, he was the firm’s Bermuda CEO, and previously served as Group Chief Capital Management Officer.
Pickering played a key role in Aspen’s IPO on the New York Stock Exchange in 2025, and its subsequent acquisition by Sompo, which completed earlier this year.
Before Aspen, Pickering held senior roles at Platinum Underwriters, and Marsh McLennan.
Neil Eckert, Chief Executive Officer, said: “We are delighted to welcome Mark to Conduit. He brings extensive experience across the global reinsurance market and a strong track record of financial leadership. His expertise will be invaluable as we continue to develop the business and execute our long-term strategy. We look forward to the contribution he will make as a member of our Executive team and Board.”
Pickering added: “I am thrilled to join Conduit and look forward to working with my new colleagues across the business. Conduit has established a strong reputation in the market, and I am excited by the opportunity to contribute to the company’s continued growth and success.”
Commenting on Whelan’s decision to retire, Eckert said: “Elaine has made an exceptional contribution to Conduit during her tenure as Chief Financial Officer and Executive Director. She has helped guide the company through its formative years, playing a central role in establishing its financial and operational foundations and supporting its growth and success.
“Throughout her time with Conduit, Elaine has been a trusted colleague and a valuable partner to the Board, Executive team and colleagues across the organisation. Elaine’s professionalism, judgement and dedication have helped shape Conduit’s culture and reputation, while her positive influence has extended well beyond the finance function and has left a lasting mark on the business.
“On behalf of the Board and all our colleagues, I would like to thank Elaine for her many contributions to Conduit. We are grateful for all that she has done and wish her well in her retirement.”
Whelan said: “It has been a privilege to serve as CFO of Conduit and to work alongside such talented colleagues during an important period in the company’s development. As with any start-up venture, there have been challenges along the way, but I have enjoyed working through them with the team. I am proud of what we have achieved together and, in particular, of my fantastic finance team. I am grateful for the support, friendship and commitment of colleagues across the business, and I leave Conduit with great confidence in its future. I wish Mark and everyone at Conduit every success in the years ahead.”
