Pioneer hires Ascot exec to target renewable energy expansion

Pioneer Underwriters, a subsidiary of Minova Insurance Holdings, has set up a new renewable energy underwriting capability in London, and appointed Warren Diogo to head the division.

Diogo will report to Pioneer’s group director of underwriting Graeme Rayner.

Under the leadership of Diogo, the renewable energy team will be tasked to underwrite on a global basis, including the US, focusing on both on and offshore wind power and solar sectors.

Diogo joins Pioneer from Ascot Underwriting, where he established Renewco, the first dedicated renewables operation in Lloyd’s, and in 2015 Lloyd’s first renewable energy underwriting consortium.

Prior to Ascot, he was the assistant vice president, climate change specialist at Marsh.

Rayner said: “Renewable energy is an exciting and growing sector and I am delighted that Warren will be using his market leading expertise to establish this underwriting class for Pioneer.

“By adding renewable energy to our technical property underwriting capabilities we will be further extending our offering to our brokers and clients across the globe.”

Diogo added: “Pioneer has a deserved reputation as an excellent home for underwriters seeking to grow their portfolios and to offer specialist expertise to their business partners. Long term success in this rapidly evolving sector requires a flexible and bespoke operating model and I look forward to leveraging Pioneer’s unique platform and management strength to the benefit of those seeking the highest quality cover for renewable energy risks.”