AM Specialty Insurance Group (ASIG), an Excess and Surplus (E&S) carrier and global provider of niche commercial re/insurance solutions, has announced the appointment of Michael Watson to its Board of Directors.
With a career in financial services spanning more than 45 years, Watson has held prominent roles in London, New York, Bermuda, and Ireland, having began his career with Arthur Andersen & Co., where he qualified as a Chartered Accountant.
He is the founder and former Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Canopius Group, a global specialty (re)insurance business writing more than $4 billion in gross written premium.
During his time at Canopius, Watson oversaw the company’s transition through two management buyouts, two strategic investor sales, and four significant acquisitions.
From its founding in 2003, Canopius expanded from a minor syndicate into a global entity, now maintaining the largest syndicate at Lloyd’s and a worldwide office network.
For the past 30 years the executive has gathered deep experience in specialty property and casualty insurance and reinsurance. In addition to his financial services background, he also has expertise in commercial and investment banking, trade finance, securities dealing, and life insurance.
Moreover, Watson is a former Member of the Council of Lloyd’s and a former Board member of the Lloyd’s Market Association.
Commenting on Watson’s appointment, Shevawn Barder, Group Chief Executive Officer of AM Specialty Insurance Group, said: “Michael’s appointment to our Board represents a significant addition to the Group.
“His experience in building and scaling a global specialty insurance business, combined with his deep Lloyd’s market experience and strategic perspective, will be highly valuable as we continue to develop AM Specialty’s platform and growth.”
