Arch UK appoints Mike Bottle as new managing director

He will lead regional strategy and drive broker-focused growth

Arch UK appoints Mike Bottle as new managing director

Insurance News

By Kenneth Araullo

Arch Insurance International has announced the promotion of Mike Bottle (pictured above) to managing director of its UK regional division, effective immediately.

In his new role, Bottle will oversee Arch’s network of regional offices across the UK and continue to manage strategy and distribution for the division.

He will collaborate with Stuart Danskin, director of underwriting, and Vicky Rowlay, national director of business transformation, to implement the company’s growth strategy. Bottle reports to Kirsten Valder, deputy CEO of Arch Insurance International. He previously served as senior vice president of strategy and distribution for the UK regional division, a position he has held since joining Arch in 2019. Before that, he was managing director of Axiom Underwriting Agency Limited.

The leadership change follows the retirement of Steve Bashford, who served as chief executive of the UK regional division.

Valder commented on the appointment, describing Bottle as a natural choice for the role, citing his market reputation and contributions to the division’s growth.

“He is highly respected by the broking market and has been integral to the impressive growth of the business. Under his leadership, we will continue to build on our momentum, strengthen our broker-focused approach and develop new solutions to respond to the evolving needs of our customers,” Valder said.

Hugh Sturgess, CEO of Arch Insurance International, also acknowledged Bashford’s contributions during his six-year tenure.

“Under his leadership, the team has developed a strong brand presence and reputation for quality underwriting and market-leading service. We wish him all the best for his well-deserved retirement,” Sturgess said.

Earlier this month, the firm announced key promotions within its casualty division. As part of the changes, Robin Hamilton has been named head of energy and marine liability, taking on responsibility for integrating the energy liability and marine liability teams. His role focuses on delivering combined solutions in these areas.

Meanwhile, Tony Flatman, who remains head of marine liability, continues to manage the underwriting and portfolio oversight for the marine liability sector. Hamilton reports directly to James Mecham, head of casualty.

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