AXA XL has announced the appointment of John Liantonio as head of mid-market private equity ahead of the targeted launch of its US mid-market business.
In his new role, Liantonio will build the underwriting unit providing multi-line property-casualty insurance for mid-sized portfolio companies managed by private equity firms. He will be based in New York and will report to Matt Waters, head of US mid-market for AXA XL.
“In the US, we’re taking a targeted approach in launching our mid-market capabilities,” Waters said. “By focusing on a specific market segment, we can thoughtfully ramp up our underwriting capabilities and operations and extend to other business segments as we grow.”
Liantonio joins AXA XL from CNA, where he served as head of commercial private equity underwriting for the East region. Prior to CNA, he held positions with Travelers, also focused on private equity as well as mergers and acquisitions, and Zurich North America. Liantonio began his underwriting career with Greater New York Insurance Companies.
“Addressing the insurance needs of private equity portfolio companies gives us an extraordinary opportunity to address diverse risks while meeting the demand for efficiency and responsiveness,” Waters said. “We are very fortunate to get John to facilitate the launch of this business and build out his team.”
The US mid-market team is expected to officially launch its underwriting operations in July. At launch, the team will offer workers’ compensation, commercial auto, general liability, property, and umbrella coverage.
Last month, AXA XL expanded its fine art team with several key appointments. In January, the company added six new hires to AXA XL Risk Consulting.
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