Fusion Specialty (Fusion), a global specialist in M&A insurance and a subsidiary of POP Group Holdings, has appointed Steven Harwood as Managing Partner for M&A in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region. In this new role, Harwood will lead Fusion’s M&A team in APAC, overseeing operations from New Zealand to India.
With over 26 years of experience in transactional liability risks, Harwood brings a diverse background to Fusion.
The company aims to capitalise on Harwood’s expertise to strengthen its presence in the APAC region, reflecting its commitment to innovation and expansion in the specialty M&A insurance sector.
Harwood is recognised as one of the most experienced underwriters in APAC, with approximately 11 years of experience in Warranty and Indemnity (W&I), Tax Indemnity, and contingent liability risks.
Before joining Fusion, Harwood led successful transactional liability teams in APAC, managing a range of liability products including W&I, tax, and contingent liabilities.
Notable achievements include underwriting Japan’s first tax indemnity policy and managing significant litigation buy-out towers related to Japanese litigation risks. He has also worked on contingent liability risks, including those involving high-profile company liquidations.
Harwood’s prior roles include key positions at Ironshore Group’s Pembroke Syndicate at Lloyd’s Japan and in the M&A practice of Herbert Smith Freehills’ Tokyo office.
Katherine Simmonds, CEO of Fusion International, expresses confidence in the appointment, stating, “Steven’s arrival aligns with our commitment to excellence and innovation, and we are confident that his expertise will significantly contribute to our growth in the dynamic M&A insurance sector across the region.”
Harwood shares his excitement for his new role, noting, “Fusion’s commitment to excellence and innovation resonates with my own professional values, and I am eager to lead the M&A team in APAC.”
“The dynamic markets in the region present unique challenges, and I am keen to leverage my experience to drive Fusion’s success, contribute to the company’s strategic objectives, and further solidify our position as a market leader in the transactional liability insurance sector,” Harwood adds.
