International insurer QBE has announced the appointment of Ben Hunter as director of Canada, effective January 2022.

Hunter joins the specialty commercial insurer from Liberty Mutual Canada, where he currently serves as vice president, head of marine, energy, construction & risk services. Prior to that, he’d held multiple leadership positions in the Canadian insurance market, including roles at Travelers Canada and Chubb Insurance.

“I am excited to lead the QBE team in Canada,” said Hunter. “They have built a great reputation as a specialty commercial insurer, with considerable underwriting depth and a strong desire to deliver customized solutions to brokers and customers.

“QBE’s global footprint, strong collaborative corporate culture, and entrepreneurial spirit are key differentiators in the market, and I look forward to profitably growing QBE’s Canadian operations as country director.”

In his new role, Hunter will report to Peter Burton, executive director, international markets, QBE European Operations. He is taking over from Jamie Thompson, who took the position of director of financial lines, QBE European Operations in May this year.

“We have made significant progress in strengthening our portfolio in Canada over the past few years,” said Burton. “I’m confident that with the new leadership that will be provided by Ben, and the talent of the wider team, we are in an excellent position to take our Canadian business to the next level of success and growth.”

Hunter’s appointment is part of a leadership re-shuffle within Australia-based QBE Insurance Group. In September 2021, industry veteran Andrew Horton took the reins as new group CEO, and he recently shared his plans for the firm with Insurance Business.