Liberty Specialty Markets (LSM) has promoted Melanie O’Neill (pictured above) to the role of chief underwriting officer (London).

In her new role, O’Neill oversees the underwriting of LSM’s London-based commercial and specialty businesses. Previously chief underwriting officer, commercial, she took over the specialty business from Mike Gosselin, who was recently appointed global leader, energy and transition risk within Liberty Mutual’s global risk solutions division. O’Neill reports to LSM chief underwriting officer Rachel Conran.

“We are excited to announce Mel’s expanded responsibilities within the LSM leadership,” Conran said. “She has contributed exceptional underwriting expertise and strong leadership and will be able to build on her excellent track record in her new role. This move will allow us to continue to deliver exceptional value and service to our broking partners and coverholders.”

O’Neill has over 30 years’ experience in the London market. She joined LSM in 2003 as a senior underwriter, before progressing to head of professional lines, and later chief underwriting officer – commercial. She began her insurance career at broker Nelson, Hurst & Marsh, which was later acquired by Lockton.