AXA XL has appointed Etienne Champion as head of underwriting in Asia for international reinsurance.

Champion, whose appointment took effect on December 01, is responsible for building AXA XL’s reinsurance portfolio and growing its market presence in Asia, a press statement from the insurance giant said. He will work together with the local reinsurance underwriting teams to further develop the portfolio in key Asian markets, such as mainland China, Hong Kong, South Korea, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia.

Prior to this role, Champion was Asia chief operating officer for AXA Corporate Solutions, which he joined in 2000 and has held several roles for, both in Europe and Asia. He was also regional underwriting practice leader for liability, motor and employee compensation supporting the AXA general insurance commercial lines underwriters in Hong Kong, Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

“The re/insurance markets in Asia are at varying stages of development and growth potential,” said Ann Chua, head of Asia for AXA XL’s reinsurance business. “China and India, for example, with their dynamic economic and social development and by their sheer size, remain the two major growth markets in Asia. In contrast, Southeast Asian markets are relatively untapped and present opportunities due to the low insurance penetration.

“Having the best talent in the right place is key to us in serving our clients’ needs and achieving our ambition in these important markets.”