Speciality (re)insurer Canopius has expanded the firm’s heavy industry and engineering division with the appointment of Mark Gazzard as new chemical underwriter.

In this new role, Gazzard will support the company’s expansion of its existing offering, which provides specialist cover and expertise for the growing demand for chemical businesses in the UK and across the world. He will offer cover and expertise in both organic and inorganic, developing tailored solutions for clients globally.

Gazzard joins the company from QBE, where he spent more than 16 years; in total, he brings over 30 years of experience, with a focus on chemical manufacturers, to his new role. Before his tenure at QBE, he served as commercial underwriter at Zurich.

Canopius heavy industry and construction head Spencer Pearce said that he is looking forward to meeting Gazzard and working with him to grow the firm’s presence in the chemical markets globally.

“Mark’s technical expertise is second to none and will be key to furnishing the growing demand that we are seeing from chemical businesses.  His exceptional knowledge of the risks which businesses in this market face will strengthen our ability to offer tailored products underpinned by technical understanding and Canopius’ focus on service,” Pearce said.

Elsewhere in the firm, Canopius Group recently announced the appointment of Sam Harrison as group chief underwriting officer.

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