Gallagher Re taps Carl Axel Holtsmark as head of life, accident & health for Nordics
He brings actuarial expertise to lead reinsurance solutions for Nordic clients
Gallagher Re taps Carl Axel Holtsmark as head of life, accident & health for Nordics
REINSURANCE NEWS
By Kenneth Araullo
07 Oct 2025

Gallagher Re has appointed Carl Axel Holtsmark (pictured above) as head of Life, Accident & Health for the Nordics.

Holtsmark will lead the delivery of reinsurance solutions for clients in the region, drawing on his actuarial background and experience in the insurance and reinsurance sectors.

Holtsmark joins Gallagher Re after more than five years at Gabler AS, where he held several roles, including head of actuarial non-life insurance and reinsurance. His previous experience includes positions at KPMG Norway as a manager and senior associate in financial risk management, and at SCOR as an actuary in Stockholm.

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Holtsmark holds a master of science in modeling and data analysis and a bachelor's degree in mathematics and statistics from the University of Oslo.

Gallagher Re said that Holtsmark will focus on providing innovative reinsurance solutions to the firm’s Nordic clients, leveraging the firm’s global expertise and strategic insight. He will be based in Oslo.

Gallagher Re has also made several other senior appointments to support its international and specialty growth. Earlier this month, Jennifer Wen was named executive director for the Taiwan team, bringing over 30 years of experience in reinsurance treaty markets and a background in both Taiwan and Guam.

Wen is expected to lead the growth and expansion of Gallagher Re’s business in Taiwan, leveraging her expertise and established market relationships.

The company has also strengthened its presence in the Middle East and Africa, appointing Ryan Witchard as executive director for its Middle East & Africa Marine practice, based in Dubai. Witchard oversees marine insurance solutions, including shipping, cargo, hull, and machinery risks, and works closely with the Specialty Marine team in London.

Earlier this year, Gallagher Re bolstered its France and BeLux teams with 14 new hires to support regional growth and enhance client service. These appointments are part of the firm’s ongoing strategy to expand its specialty and regional capabilities.

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