Two key hires are beefing up the UK retail business at specialist global insurer Hiscox.

Making the switch from Zurich, where he held the role of EMEA (Europe, the Middle East, and Africa) claims director for four years, is RSA veteran Ben Horton. He has been tapped to serve as chief underwriting officer for Hiscox UK & Ireland in London.   

“Our retail business is an increasingly important component of Hiscox Group and, like any insurance business, good underwriting is critical to success,” noted Ben Walter, chief executive of Hiscox global retail. “Ben Horton’s deep industry expertise and sharp eye for new opportunities are exactly what we need to drive our most established retail business forward.”

Also joining the firm is James Browne, former senior marketing director at Phillips in the Netherlands. Appointed managing director of Hiscox’s UK and Ireland direct unit, Browne will be based in York where he also brings experience from Unilever.  

“Our direct channel has been integral to the success of our retail arm,” said Walter. “It’s an exciting part of the business that never stands still, and we’re delighted to have a customer-focused executive like James onboard to take it forward. He is an exceptional leader who will build on the great momentum we have in the franchise.”

The Hiscox Group, with headquarters in Bermuda, employs more than 2,700 people in 14 countries.

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