Speacialist insurer Beazley has hired Damian Kerin to head its contingency business in Australia.

Kerin joins Beazley from insurer Sportscover and has more than 20 years’ experience within the Australian insurance industry.

Beazley continues to strengthen its contingency business thanks to Kerin’s underwriting experience as the company looks to build on its strong position in the event insurance space.

Chris Rackliffe, Beazley’s global head of contingency, said of the appointment: “I am delighted that Beazley has attracted an underwriter of Damian’s experience and reputation to lead our Australian contingency business.

“We have had a local team in Australia underwriting contingency risks since 2010 and Damian is perfectly placed to lead our next stage of development.”

Kerin will focus on business development and will work alongside Beazley’s national client list to strengthen Beazley’s position in Australia.

Beazley offers contingency insurance for all manner of small, medium and large events having worked in the contingency space for over two decades and will look to maintain its standing at the forefront of the industry.

Taking over from Al Dart, Kerin previously worked for Austagencies as a national manager and takes over as head of contingency immediately.