New team: Alex Kirkby and Emma Foxley of Ascot
21 February 2024News

Ascot expands presence in marine and energy sector

Specialty re/insurer Ascot has expanded its presence in the marine re/insurance sector with the launch of a marine & energy treaty reinsurance business led by former Validus Reinsurance underwriter Alex Kirkby.

Kirkby, who was vice president at Validus Re, responsible for underwriting marine, energy and composite business, will be supported by former Lancashire Insurance underwriter Emma Foxley in the new division.

Kirkby, who is senior vice president, head of marine & energy, Bermuda joins Ascot with more than a decade of experience in the marine & energy space. Prior to Validus, he spent time at both PartnerRe and Willis Re.

Emma, who will be Vice President, Marine and Energy, Bermuda, worked as an underwriter in Lancashire’s Specialty Reinsurance segment. Prior to Lancashire, she worked as a portfolio analyst at Markel CATCo Investment Management. She has spent her insurance career in Bermuda developing and deepening key relationships with clients across the region.

Simon Kimberley, chief underwriting officer, property, Ascot Bermuda said: “I am delighted to welcome Alex and Emma as we augment our Marine and Energy offerings at Ascot. Alex and Emma’s combined expertise, experience and strong broker and client connections will complement our existing group relationships and capabilities.

“Ascot has long been regarded as a leader in the marine sector and this strategic expansion into Marine & Energy Treaty business underscores our continued commitment to the space.”

Kirkby added: “Ascot is a company that is centred around underwriting excellence, collaboration, and an entrepreneurial culture.

"I am delighted to join their team of dedicated industry professionals and bring my knowledge and leadership experience to the company’s Bermuda platform to launch the Marine & Energy Treaty portfolio alongside Emma Foxley. With this new business capability, Ascot will continue to support and strengthen its excellent value proposition for both our clients and brokers.”

Did you get value from this story? Sign up to our free daily newsletters and get stories like this sent straight to your inbox.