Bermudian-based Axis Capital Holdings Limited has appointed John Owen as chief executive of Axis Managing Agency Limited, subject to regulatory approval.

In his new role, Mr Owen will be responsible for AMA, the managing agent arm of Axis Capital that oversees the group's Lloyd's of London operation, including Syndicate 1686.

The company said Mr Owen has been with Axis – and Novae prior to its merger with Axis in 2017 – for 19 years in underwriting and leadership roles, having been head of marine and political risks until May, and now head of specialty, global markets.

He reports to Mark Gregory who previously held the AMA CEO position in addition to his current role as head of global markets at Axis.

Mr Gregory remains a board member of AMA.

He said: “John’s extensive underwriting and leadership experience within Axis and the Lloyd’s market equip him very well for the management and regulatory responsibilities of his new position as CEO of Axis Managing Agency.

“The depth of John’s market knowledge, his experience in underwriting across various specialty lines, and his strong relationships across the market, will strongly support our efforts to elevate Axis as a leading specialty insurer and reinsurer.”