Axis Capital Holdings Ltd. has announced the launch of a new global division to provide accident and health re/insurance coverage.

Christopher DiSipio was appointed chief executive officer of the newly-formed Axis Global Accident & Health division in January, and he reports to Dennis Reding, COO of AXIS Capital.

Most recently, Mr. DiSipio was COO of accident, health and life at the Chubb Corporation, where he was responsible for developing and implementing Chubb's accident, health and life strategy worldwide.

Axis Capital has also announced that Michael Pellino has become senior vice-president of underwriting at the new division, which is based in Princeton, New Jersey. Previously, he led accident and specialty insurance underwriting and product development at Catlin Underwriting and Cigna Group Insurance.

Mr. DiSipio said: "We have assembled a team of experienced leaders in domestic and international accident and health underwriting, product management, sales and claims. From our base in the US market, we expect to expand our presence to include the UK, European, Canadian, Australian and Asian markets."

Axis Global Accident & Health will be available to provide reinsurance coverage on a quota share, excess of loss and aggregate excess of loss basis beginning in January 2010.

Coverages underwritten will include corporate personal accident and business travel accident products, association/affinity programs, student accident and catastrophic health products.

In addition, in early 2010, the division expects to offer US insurance products, including personal accident, business travel accident, student accident and sickness and special risks, including youth activities, daycare and non-profit groups.