“Another landmark in the development of our business,” was how chief executive officer Darren Doherty described the decision to move Pioneer Underwriting into Latin America.

The London-based underwriter has already spread its wings into the USA and now it has announced it will be opening up a regional hub in Latin America, based in Mexico City. It’s a move the company says is consistent with its strategy to access local business placed in local markets.

Leading the new business will be Graeme Rayner, Pioneer’s group director of underwriting. His team will focus on property and casualty business and will include Rogelio Diaz, who has 22 years of experience in the Latin American market, and was previously at Odyssey Re; Gabriel Buzo, who has 12 years of experience in the region and was formerly head of financial lines and liability at Odyssey Re; and Paolo Benitez who has 15 years’ experience and is the former Latin American head of general casualty and financial lines at Reasinter.

“Pioneer’s unique operating model and innovative culture provides a great platform from which to trade going forward,” said Diaz. “We are excited to be part of this growing and dynamic organisation.”

Completing the team is Salvador Hernandez, who is a former Latin American territorial leader at Gen Re.

“The team will add to our existing capabilities in the region and bring Pioneer’s capabilities closer to clients and local brokers,” commented Doherty. “The Latin American team’s credentials speak for themselves and I’m delighted to welcome them to Pioneer.”