MGA snaps up Axa director for chief executive role

Specialty managing general agent (MGA) Optio has appointed Deepak Soni as its new chief executive.

The appointee will join the MGA from Axa, having started at the insurer as director of digital trading in 2015 and then returning for a second stint of seven years in 2017.

Soni will leave his role as director at Axa Commercial to join Optio after a combined nine years at the business. 

In this role, his responsibilities included executing Axa UK’s Commercial strategy and expanding the business.

Prior to Axa, he also spent nine years at Hiscox in various senior roles, including head of Hiscox Direct Commercial.

The MGA explained that his appointment “been a long-anticipated and carefully considered decision by the Optio board”.

Leadership capabilities

Matthew Fosh, executive chairman at Optio Group, said: “I am delighted to announce Deepak’s appointment as the new chief executive of Optio Group.

“He brings an impressive track record of driving profitable growth and has demonstrated exceptional leadership capabilities throughout his 20 year career in senior roles.

“Soni joins us at a pivotal time in Optio’s development and I am confident he will help us seize opportunities for further profitable growth under his leadership.”

Commenting on his appointment, Soni said: “I am thrilled to be joining Optio and to lead the next phase of its development.

“Optio’s strong position in the specialty market provides an excellent foundation for growth and I look forward to working with the talented teams within the business.

“Together, we will continue to deliver outstanding products and services to the global insurance market, driving innovation and success.”