Arch announces new EU chief executive

Arch Insurance EU (AIEU) has appointed Duncan Smith as its new chief executive.

AIEU writes business across Europe through its property and casualty and mortgage divisions. It also provides capacity to MGAs through its Alwyn Europe arm.

Smith will lead the executive management team and oversee the delivery of the company’s growth plans across continental Europe in his new role.

The appointee, who joined Arch in 2005 and was most recently deputy chief executive at AIEU, succeeds Søren Scheuer, who has stepped down.

Kirsten Valder, a director at AIEU and deputy chief executive at Arch Insurance International, said: “Smith’s appointment as chief executive marks an exciting next chapter for our EU business.

“His considerable underwriting expertise and leadership experience will be critical as AIEU continues to elevate its market position and relevance to brokers and customers across Europe.”

Scheuer’s next move

Scheuer, who first joined Arch in 2007 as a general manager, decided to step down as chief executive after five years in the role.

However, he will remain on the board of the company as a non-executive director.

Scheuer will also focus on leading the accident and health team at Arch Re Underwriting ApS.

Michael Hammer, a director at AIEU and president and chief executive at Arch Reinsurance Europe Underwriting, said: “We sincerely thank Scheuer for his leadership and relentless engagement during the past six years.

“During his tenure, Scheuer established a highly talented team and set the company on a clear course for European expansion.”