By Josh Recamara
The insurance sector continues to see strategic leadership changes across key markets, with Pen Underwriting, Allianz Trade, BHSI and Antares Global each announcing senior appointments.
Pen Underwriting names CEO for Ireland
Pen Underwriting has appointed Michael Doyle as chief executive officer of its Irish operations, subject to regulatory approval. Doyle will join the multi-class, multi-territory managing general agent (MGA) and its executive team on March 1, 2026.
With over 25 years of experience in Ireland’s insurance market, Doyle joins from Ivernia Insurance, where he has been CEO since 2023. His previous roles include director of sales and distribution at Zurich's general insurance business in Ireland, and managing director of Wrightway Underwriting.
In his new role, Doyle will oversee Pen’s expansion strategy in Ireland, focusing on scaling the business and broadening its product offerings to brokers and clients nationwide. Tom Downey, CEO of Pen Underwriting, said the appointment marks a significant step in developing Pen's Irish platform as Wrightway transitions to Pen Underwriting Ireland.
Allianz Trade appoints global head of specialty credit and mid term
Allianz Trade has promoted William Whittington (pictured, left) to global head of specialty credit and mid term, succeeding Christophe White, who has decided to pursue opportunities outside the Allianz Group.
Whittington began his career at Lloyd's of London before joining Allianz Trade in 2016. He has since worked across Singapore, Paris and New York, most recently leading the specialty credit and mid term business in London.
In his new role, Whittington will continue to be based in London as he takes global responsibility for the division.
Frederic de Blieck promoted to country manager at BHSI
Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance (BHSI) has promoted Frederic de Blieck to country manager, Belgium, expanding his current role as head of executive & professional lines.
De Blieck joined BHSI in 2022 and brings nearly two decades of financial lines experience.
Antares Global strengthens cargo leadership team
Antares Global has promoted Andy Bridgwood (pictured, right) and Chris Early to joint class cargo underwriters, reinforcing its marine division's leadership team.
The duo will oversee Antares' cargo book and report to James Glynn, head of marine.
Bridgwood, who joined Antares in 2022, has 15 years’ experience in cargo underwriting with previous roles at Tokio Marine Europe Insurance and Generali. Early, who joined in March 2025, has a decade of experience in underwriting, including roles at Starstone, AIG and Apollo.