Optio Group, a specialty managing general agent (MGA), has named Deepak Soni as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), a long-anticipated and carefully considered appointment by the company’s board and its private equity partners, Preservation Capital Partners.
Soni brings extensive experience, strategic vision, and a proven track record of building businesses.
He will use his skills and knowledge to lead Optio, an MGA focused on emerging insurance risks, through its next phase of global expansion and profitable growth, both organically and through strategic acquisitions.
Matthew Fosh, executive chairman of Optio Group, stated: “I am delighted to announce Deepak’s appointment as the new CEO of Optio Group. He brings an impressive track record of driving profitable growth and has demonstrated exceptional leadership capabilities throughout his 20-year career in senior roles. Deepak joins us at a pivotal time in Optio’s development, and I am confident he will help us seize opportunities for further profitable growth under his leadership.”
Soni joins Optio Group from AXA, where he served as commercial director of AXA Insurance Co. for the past nine years, playing a pivotal role in executing AXA’s UK commercial strategy and growing the business.
Throughout his tenure at AXA, the executive held multiple senior positions, overseeing its SME, direct-to-consumer, delegated authority, and specialty lines businesses.
Prior to this, Soni was part of Hiscox, where he spent nine years in various senior roles, including head of Hiscox Direct Commercial, following an early career as a broker at Aon for three years.
Commenting on his appointment, Soni said: “I am thrilled to be joining Optio and to lead the next phase of its development. Optio’s strong position in the specialty market provides an excellent foundation for growth, and I look forward to working with the talented teams within the business. Together, we will continue to deliver outstanding products and services to the global insurance market, driving innovation and success.”
