QBE, the business insurance specialist, plans to further develop its book of political violence business written in South East Asia with a three year business plan for profitable growth. Matt Bird, currently a Political Violence Underwriter in QBE’s London office, will relocate to Singapore to manage the portfolio and will make an initial move in time for the 1 July renewals.
The market for Political Violence cover in South East Asia is growing at pace and QBE already writes a broad book of business across the region via its Lloyd’s Asia syndicate QBE Marine and Energy Services (QMES) and Syndicate 1036 in London. Matt will continue to develop existing Lloyd’s business and will also handle risks from QBE’s regional network.
Colin O’Farrell, Chief Underwriting Officer for QBE’s Marine, Energy and Aviation division commented: “Matt’s move to Singapore is in direct response to the growing interest in political violence cover across South East Asia and also the desire there for local security and local support. Matt’s specialism will provide the Lloyd’s market in Singapore with a unique skill and while he will continue to operate through QMES he will be able to draw on QBE Asia Pacific’s network to underwrite and support businesses in the entire region.”
Nicky Ablett, Portfolio Manager for Political Violence commented: “I believe that Matt’s expertise, coupled with dual pen capability will serve to greatly enhance our product offering to our clients across the region.”
Matt Bird said: “I am delighted to be offered this opportunity to continue to build our existing portfolio across a region with so much potential for further business development.”
Matt joined QBE in 2009 from JLT where he was Head of Terrorism. He has over 15 year’s experience in political violence and terrorism insurance. QBE plans to recruit a Political Violence Underwriter in the London team to replace him.
