Harries to step down from QBE Syndicate 386, replacement revealed

QBE Syndicate 386 active underwriter and head of financial lines David Harries is set to step down and retire from his role after 34 years with the insurer.

The company has appointed Cécile Fresneau to take over his role as active underwriter for syndicate 386 in addition to her current role as executive director UK insurance, subject to Lloyd’s and QBE Underwriting board approval.

Harries will be supporting the handover of the role to Fresneau during the first half of 2021.

Fresneau joined QBE in 2018 and has over 19 years of insurance industry experience.

Syndicate 386, which was established in 1974, is a specialist UK non-marine liability insurer that writes employers’ liability, professional indemnity, public and product liability in the UK and internationally.

Sam Harrison, managing director at QBE, said: “Syndicate 386 has a long and successful history at Lloyd’s and David has been instrumental in this success. I thank David for his important contributions to QBE over his long and distinguished career and wish him all the best in his retirement.”

He added: “Cécile’s extensive experience, including the past three years at QBE, means she is well-suited to lead the next phase of Syndicate 386’s development.”