Obsidian swoops on Swiss Re for new chief underwriting officer

Genstar-backed hybrid programme carrier Obsidian Insurance Group has hired a new chief underwriting officer (CUO), who joins from Swiss Re.

Obsidian has appointed reinsurance and programme insurance industry executive Jeff Wittlich as CUO.

Most recently, Wittlich was head of the regional and national MGA practice at Swiss Re US, where he had served in various reinsurance underwriting and business development roles since 2001. He began his career as an underwriter at CNA.

William Jewett (pictured), chief executive officer of Obsidian, said: "Jeff Wittlich is a tremendous addition to our already strong Leadership Team. His extensive program underwriting and portfolio management experience, as well as his connectivity within the industry, are among the many things that will drive his contributions to our continued growth and profitability in the years to come."

He added: "There continues to be a great demand for proven, top talent within the industry and particularly within the programme sector. Jeff's underwriting experience and acumen fit exceptionally well with our business strategy, which is based on a commitment to underwriting and operational excellence."

Wittlich commented: "I have known and supported Obsidian since their formation almost four years ago, and I am extremely impressed with what Obsidian has accomplished – consistent with their stated strategy. They have built a hybrid programme carrier with top tier underwriting and operational capabilities as their foundation. I am looking forward to contributing to their continued success."