Canopius has announced that Andy Haste will be its new group chairman, effective July 1, 2024.
Haste will lead the group board after a record year for Canopius in 2023. He brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having previously served as group chief executive of RSA Insurance Group and CEO of AXA Sun Life. Haste also held the positions of senior independent director and deputy chairman of Lloyd’s from 2012 to 2021. Currently, he chairs the board of esure group.
Haste will take over from Michael Watson, who will step down but continue to support Canopius in an advisory capacity.
Reflecting on his tenure, Watson said: “It has been my privilege to develop Canopius since its foundation in 2003, alongside great colleagues and supportive shareholders. Canopius has never been in better shape, and I have great confidence in Andy Haste and Neil Robertson’s leadership team to propel the business to new heights in the coming years.”
In 2023, Canopius reported profits after tax of $363 million and a 22% increase in written insurance premiums, reaching $2.80 billion.
Ben Langworthy, Canopius shareholder board director and senior managing director and co-head of Europe at Centerbridge, Canopius Group’s majority shareholder, expressed his support for Haste’s appointment.
Neil Robertson, Canopius Group CEO, commented: “Andy will bring independence, gravitas, and a wealth of experience to our board that will help shape the next chapter of the Canopius journey. Throughout his career, Andy has built a reputation as a strong leader who acts with conviction. All qualities that I believe will serve Canopius well. The appointment of an individual of Andy’s stature in the industry demonstrates our ambition for Canopius in the coming years, and we’re delighted to have him on board.”
