Canopius Group, a global specialty and property and casualty (re)insurer, has made several appointments as part of its strategy to strengthen its presence and capabilities in the Asia-Pacific region.
The company has named Michelle Rudd (pictured) as chief operating officer for APAC and Vanessa Hall as casualty underwriter, both based in Sydney.
These appointments are intended to support Canopius’ ongoing efforts to enhance operational efficiency and underwriting expertise in the region.
Rudd will be responsible for overseeing operational strategy and performance across Asia-Pacific.
She joins Canopius from Arch Underwriting at Lloyd’s (Australia), where she held the position of director and operations manager.
In her previous role, Rudd was involved in establishing branch operations and developing business processes and service delivery infrastructure.
At Canopius, she will join the APAC executive committee and report to Soon Keen (SK) Lee, chief executive officer for Asia-Pacific & MENA, and Kate Roy, group chief operating officer in London.
Rudd will also collaborate with Andrew Ziolkowski, who recently joined as head of Australia and New Zealand.
SK Lee noted that Rudd’s arrival comes as the company continues to build its leadership team in the region.
“With her experience and strategic vision, she and Andrew will play key roles in driving Canopius’ growth momentum. Their combined leadership will ensure our Sydney office remains a cornerstone for innovation and collaboration as we pursue ambitious goals,” she said.
Vanessa Hall has joined Canopius as casualty underwriter, bringing more than two decades of industry experience. She previously served as underwriting and product manager at ARAG Services Australia.
In her new role, Hall will report to Brodie English, head of casualty for Australia and New Zealand.
English commented: “We are delighted to welcome Vanessa to the Canopius APAC team. Her appointment reflects our continued investment in our people and our commitment to delivering outstanding service to brokers and clients across the region.”
These appointments follow recent changes to Canopius’ leadership structure in Australia, New Zealand, and the wider Asia-Pacific region.
Brodie English has been promoted to head of casualty for Australia and New Zealand, effective June 1.
English, who has been with Canopius for three years, now oversees casualty underwriting strategy, service delivery, and regional growth initiatives.
His experience includes roles at AXA XL and Tokio Marine, as well as leading the implementation of new underwriting systems at Canopius.
Additionally, Rob Barnum has been named head of financial lines for the Asia-Pacific region.
Barnum, who joined Canopius in 2024, brings over 10 years of experience in financial lines underwriting, including senior roles at XL Catlin and AXIS Capital.
He is responsible for the financial lines strategy in APAC, with a focus on expanding market share and supporting clients and distribution partners.
