Axis has made Jim Rhyner head of North America financial lines, programmes and Canada.

The post is effective August 31, with Mr Rhyner reporting to head of North America Mike McKenna. He will work out of the firm’s Short Hills, New Jersey office.

Mr Rhyner joins Axis from The Hartford, where he most recently served as global head of financial lines. He has held previous leadership roles at Navigators, Chubb, Avreco and AIG. He succeeds John Van Decker, following a planned leadership transition.

Mr Van Decker is retiring from Axis following a career that spanned more than four decades, including 15 years with Axis.

In his new role, Mr Rhyner will further develop and execute the strategy for businesses under his remit, supporting the continued growth and diversification of the Axis insurance portfolio. He will also lead the team in deepening relationships with brokers, clients and other key stakeholders while advancing innovation and delivering differentiated specialty solutions.

Mr McKenna said Mr Rhyner is a well-respected leader within the industry with an established reputation for leading high-performing teams.

Axis said he brings with him deep knowledge and perspective in the global financial lines space.

“His leadership will be invaluable as we continue to elevate how we service our partners and customers,” Mr McKenna said. “His extensive experience and demonstrated expertise make him a natural successor to John Van Decker. We are grateful to John for all he has contributed to Axis over his accomplished career with our company and in the industry. ”