OAK Global, a global risk partner underwriting through two dedicated syndicates within Lloyd’s, has announced the launch of ROOT Intelligence, a new technology company created to drive innovation.
ROOT Intelligence combines specialist engineering, compliance, data science and AI expertise to build and scale proprietary tools that enhance technology-enabled risk insights. The company will also focus on strengthening operational resilience by future-proofing data foundations, simplifying operations and creating more efficient, scalable ways of working.
ROOT Intelligence will deliver OCEAN (OAK Capital, Exposure and Analytics Network), a risk orchestration platform designed to leverage advances in AI.
It will be located within Trinity College Dublin’s innovation hub, alongside academic and industry partners.
ROOT Intelligence will serve as OAK Global’s long-term catalyst for technology transformation, supporting the company’s ambition to become a forward-looking, AI-native risk partner built on robust governance, trusted data and effective controls.
ROOT Intelligence is underpinned by Amazon Web Services (AWS), providing access to the latest AI, data and cloud capabilities, alongside the expertise needed to operationalise emerging technologies and convert innovation into business value. These capabilities will enable ROOT Intelligence to bring cutting-edge research, talent and modern technology directly into the OAK Global business.
Gerard DeVere, Head of Platform, will lead the ROOT Intelligence team alongside Oliver Mapp, Head of Data Science & Innovation, and Alex Stephenson, Head of Business Technology. The team will work closely with OAK Global’s underwriting, capital & risk and finance & operations functions.
Cathal Carr, Founder and CEO of OAK Global, said, “As the pace of change driven by technology – and AI specifically – accelerates, the creation of ROOT Intelligence enhances OAK Global’s strategy to embrace the challenge this change will present. OAK Global adopts holistic intelligence as a foundational capability building strategy. It is our belief that future underwriting leadership will only be achieved through the successful fusion of both market-leading talent and technology – data driven innovation rooted in strong security, governance and controls to enable, not replace, our people in delivering market leading long-term solutions to our clients and investors.”
Alex Winfield, Co-Founder, Chief Capital Officer and Head of Strategy for OAK Global, added, “ROOT Intelligence will enable faster, more consistent responses through efficient workflows and better access to OAK Global’s proprietary data asset, supporting better risk management for our clients. It will allow OAK Global to deliver responsive, better-informed and more reliable underwriting decisions across the cycle, building trust through speed, clarity and consistency.
“Through its research and technology partnerships, ROOT Intelligence will ensure OAK Global remains closely connected to advances in AI, data science and analytics – translating innovation and experimentation into practical underwriting advantage.”
Irfan Haq, Chief Financial Officer and Managing Director for OAK Global, said, “We are proud to expand our Group footprint into Dublin, one of Europe’s leading technology ecosystems. Complementing our London-based Lloyd’s underwriting platform, this technology investment strengthens our ability to deliver long term value for our stakeholders.”
