Allied World acquires Markel’s aviation team and business

Allied World Europe, part of Allied World Assurance Company, has hired the aviation underwriting team of Markel Europe and acquired the renewal rights to a book of aviation business written by Markel Europe and its Lloyd's Syndicate 1400.

The business includes airline, aerospace and general aviation classes. The underwriting team is led by Olivier Marre.

Markel acquired the aviation book of business in May this year as part of its acquisition of Alterra Capital.

Julian James, president of Allied World Europe, said: “We are delighted to secure such a high calibre team of individuals. By expanding into this market, we are taking another step in the strategy of building out our European business in areas where we believe we can make a meaningful impact.

“Having underwritten the quota share for the entire account through our Bermuda operation, we have knowledge and experience of the class, and with Olivier and his team's impressive track record, I am confident that we can continue to build on the team's previous success."

William Stovin, president and chief operating officer, Markel International, said: “This is a good deal for all of us which allows Markel to focus on its core lines of business while Olivier and his team can continue to look after a book of business it knows well."

Marre, added: "I am pleased that our underwriting team has joined Allied World. We have spent considerable time managing this handover and I am confident that there will be a seamless transition for our clients during this process. The aviation market remains a challenging environment and continuing to implement our underwriting discipline will be a critical factor to our success."