Sompo Canopius hires former Argo Group SVP

Specialist re/insurer Sompo Canopius has appointed Laurie Banez as head of US financial and professional lines, who will report to Stephen Hartwig, group head of casualty.

Banez has nearly 30 years of underwriting experience, having most recently served as senior vice president (SVP, head of US professional lines and chief underwriting officer for Argo Group US for six years.

Prior to this, Banez has also held SVP and executive vice president roles at CV Starr, AXIS US Insurance and Kemper Insurance.

Mike Duffy, chief underwriting officer, comments: “When considering expanding in US casualty, we wanted to be sure that we did so in the right way and with the right people.

“With Laurie, we have found someone who has an impressive track record of starting up and growing profitable books of business.

“She has a great reputation in the market and we’re pleased that she sees the growing potential of Sompo Canopius in the US.”