Aegis moves into specie

Aegis London has appointed a new specie team led by senior underwriter Ian Seakens and supported by underwriter Ian Morton.

Reporting to deputy active underwriter and head of specialty lines John Chambers, the team will be responsible for building a portfolio of specie business, including jewellers’ block, fine arts, general specie and motor material damage and theft.

Both underwriters have joined from Broadgate Syndicate where Seakens was underwriting manager with responsibility for the theft, bloodstock and livestock, and property schemes portfolios.

Morton was previously underwriter, property special risks at Broadgate for six years.

Active underwriter David Croom-Johnson, said: “Our move into specie is an extension of our careful diversification strategy which has already seen us add expertise in areas such as reinsurance treaty, contingency, accident and health and leisure.

“This is a niche class that has proven it can be profitable provided you have underwriters with a good understanding of the business. Both Ian Seaken and Ian Morton bring extensive experience in this class and I am confident will establish a profitable book for Aegis London.”