Pioneer announces marine specialty capability
Pioneer Underwriters’ new marine specialty underwriting capability will be led by newly appointed Head of marine specialty Grant Witheat.
Supported by selected syndicates at Lloyd’s (rated A+ by S&P) and company market capacity, the new division will underwrite a portfolio of political violence, cargo, fine art and specie risks.
Grant Witheat has over 20 years experience as a leading marine specialty underwriter and will report to Darren Doherty, CEO of Pioneer Underwriters. He was previously head of the specialty property division at Channel Syndicate 2015, where he grew the book’s income significantly with a diversified spread of business.
Grant will be joined by underwriter Brook Styles from Markel International who has 8 years market experience within cargo and specie.
Pioneer said that the appointment of this strong core team is the platform from which it will build out its underwriting capability and grow a sustainable long-term focused book of marine specialty business.
Darren Doherty, CEO of Pioneer Underwriters, commented: “I am delighted Pioneer’s marine underwriting has been strengthened significantly by the establishment of the marine specialty book under Grant Witheat’s capable leadership. His expertise and well established market reputation will be a key factor in Pioneer’s development of a leading position in this sector.”
Witheat said: “The strength of Pioneer’s brand and its well controlled infrastructure will allow us to develop a leading market presence in the marine specialty classes. I am delighted to join Pioneer’s entrepreneurial organisation, bringing the highest quality underwriting service to marine specialty clients and brokers.”
