The Lloyd’s market and the UK specialty insurance sector have entered 2026 with a series of strategic appointments, strengthening capabilities across underwriting, claims, finance, risk management and international distribution.
LMA names new underwriting director
The Lloyd’s Market Association (LMA) has appointed Matthew Bellamy as underwriting director, reporting to chief executive Sheila Cameron.
In his new role, Bellamy will lead the LMA’s underwriting team, providing technical expertise and support to members, managing agents and the wider Lloyd’s market. He joins from Ki Syndicate 1618, where he served as chief underwriting officer and active underwriter. His previous experience also includes senior roles at Fidelis Partnership, including director of underwriting and deputy UK CUP.
Cameron said Bellamy’s appointment would play a key role in delivering a stronger, more effective market for underwriters. Bellamy added that his focus would be on helping the LMA shape, structure and analyse emerging underwriting models as the market continues to evolve.
QBE bolsters European claims leadership
International insurer QBE has strengthened its European claims leadership team with two senior promotions. Chris Reidy has been appointed head of core claims, while James Villiers becomes head of complex claims. Both will report to claims director Mike East.
Reidy has spent nearly two decades with QBE and most recently led its complex property, casualty, motor and health claims portfolio. Villiers brings more than 20 years of complex claims experience, having overseen complex marine and energy claims for the past seven years.
In a newly established role, Scott Jacobs has been appointed head of claims transformation, where he will lead AI-driven, automation and modernisation initiatives across QBE’s European claims operations. East said the appointments underline the insurer’s commitment to innovation, enhanced claims processes and the delivery of consistent customer service.
AM Specialty appoints CFO and CRO
AM Specialty Insurance Company (UK) has announced the appointment of Kevin Stephenson as chief finance officer and Viren Patel as chief risk officer.
Stephenson brings more than 20 years of finance experience across Lloyd’s and global insurance markets, having previously held senior positions at AXA XL and Marco Capital. Patel joins with extensive expertise in enterprise risk management, internal model validation and ESG compliance, following senior risk roles at AEGIS London, Starr Companies and Lloyd’s.
Bridge Specialty International expands global leadership
Bridge Specialty International (BSI) has appointed Greg Ferguson as chief executive of international distribution, a newly created role reporting to group CEO Tim Coles.
Ferguson will be responsible for driving growth outside the US, expanding BSI’s international footprint and building out its global talent base. His previous roles include senior leadership positions at Ardonagh Specialty, Price Forbes and Howden.
Coles highlighted Ferguson’s extensive market relationships as key to accelerating BSI’s international expansion, while Ferguson highlighted his focus on building long-term carrier partnerships and delivering tailored products to new markets.
