Arch hires new MD for UK regional arm as chief executive retires

Arch Insurance International has promoted Mike Bottle to the role of managing director for its UK regional division.

Bottle succeeds Steve Bashford, who has decided to retire as chief executive of the arm.

In his new role, the appointee will oversee strategy and distribution in the UK and lead a network of regional offices.

He takes up the role after spending the last six years as senior vice president for the UK regional division. Before this, he was the managing director at Axiom Underwriting Agency.

In his new role, he will report to Kirsten Valder, deputy chief executive at Arch Insurance International.

Valder said: “Bottle is the natural successor to lead the UK regional division.

“He is highly respected by the broking market and has been integral to the impressive growth of the business. Under his leadership, we will continue to build on our momentum, strengthen our broker-focused approach and develop new solutions to respond to the evolving needs of our customers.”

Bashford retirement

Bashford, who has decided to retire after more than 10 years with Arch, worked in several roles at the firm, including group senior vice president.

He then moved into the position of executive director for financial lines at Arch Insurance International, before becoming chief executive of the UK regional division.

Hugh Sturgess, chief executive at Arch Insurance International, said: “I would like to take the opportunity to thank Bashford for his unwavering dedication over the last six years to making the UK regional division a leading carrier for our broker partners and mutual clients.

“Under his leadership, the team has developed a strong brand presence and reputation for quality underwriting and market-leading service. We wish him all the best for his well-deserved retirement.”