Daniel O’Connell to underwrite war, terrorism and political violence at XL Group

XL Group has appointed Daniel O’Connell to its crisis management team to underwrite war, terrorism and political violence.

O’Connell has a military background, having reached the rank of captain in the British Army and serving in Germany, Iraq and Northern Ireland. He joins XL Group from Hiscox where he provided underwriting expertise in war, terrorism and political violence, and previously held various roles at Willis and Global Markets International, including terrorism team and accident and health team leader.

O’Connell reports to Stephen Ashwell, chief underwriting officer, who joined the company earlier this year to head the new crisis management team.

XL Group chief executive global specialty Neil Robertson said: “This is a significant appointment for XL Group. As companies invest and operate in countries and territories prone to political instability, they are increasingly looking to insurers to provide cover for their people and assets. Daniel, in his new role, will be providing solutions that respond to these fast-changing and evolving risks.”