Chaucer hires Montpelier Re exec to head up Copenhagen operations

Chaucer, the specialist Lloyd’s insurance group, has appointed Dr Gero Michel as head of Chaucer Copenhagen and senior treaty underwriter for Chaucer Syndicate 1084.

Michel joins Chaucer from Montpelier Reinsurance Holdings, where he was chief risk officer and head of risk analytics. In the past he has also had senior roles at Willis, Endurance, RMS, and Hannover Re.

Michel will lead the development of Chaucer’s European and Scandinavian underwriting portfolio, working with the well-established Copenhagen, Oslo and London teams.  He has more than 25 years of hazard, risk management and catastrophe underwriting and modelling experience, having begun his career in Germany as a scientist, following a PhD in geoscience.

“Gero brings a wealth of catastrophe expertise, business experience and proven leadership capabilities to Chaucer, and we all look forward to working with him,” said John Fowle, chief underwriting officer at Chaucer.

“Developing our European presence through understanding clients’ exposures and tailoring solutions is an important strategic goal for Chaucer. Gero’s drive and insight will significantly support us in achieving this goal.

“I would also like to thank Carl-Gustav Scavenius, as he retires from his role as head of Chaucer Copenhagen.  He has provided strong leadership and greatly contributed to our business.  We wish him the greatest success and happiness for the future.”

Michel added: “This is an exciting new challenge for me and I look forward to working with my colleagues in Scandinavia and London as we develop our position further as a valued insurer and reinsurer.”