WR Berkley splits top leadership at Lloyd’s with ex-CNA boss at helm

Property/casualty insurer WR Berkley is separating the top roles at WR Berkley Syndicate Management, the Lloyd’s managing agent for Syndicate 1967, that will see former CNA Hardy boss David Brosnan take the CEO reins from Alastair Blades in a move intended to "maximize its capabilities and expansion opportunities in an improving market".

Blades will continue in his role as chief underwriting officer (CUO) while Brosnan will become the CEO of WR Berkley's Lloyd's business.

Brosnan has 35 years of insurance industry experience, having served in various executive leadership roles at a number of global insurance organisations. He most recently served as CEO of the international division of CNA in London.

Blades, who has nearly 35 years of experience in the insurance industry, joined Berkley in 2009 to lead the underwriting strategy for the newly formed WR Berkley Syndicate 1967. He led the team at W / R / B Underwriting through the transition from a London Market insurer with a Lloyd’s presence to a Lloyd’s centric business during Brexit.

W. Robert Berkley, Jr., president and chief executive officer, said: "We are delighted to welcome David to Berkley with his demonstrated leadership, superb market reputation and extensive management experience. Alastair has provided pivotal leadership in developing our integrated Lloyd’s platform.

"The decoupling of the chief executive officer and chief underwriting officer roles provides each of David and Alastair the opportunity for even greater focus that will enable the W / R / B Underwriting team to maximize its capabilities and expansion opportunities in this improving market."

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