Andrew Whitlock has been promoted to head of casualty at Arch Insurance Australia, responsible for underwriting strategy and growth of the retail portfolio.

Sydney-based Mr Whitlock reports to MD Dominic Brannigan and will work closely with James Mecham, deputy chief underwriting officer for long-tail lines and head of general casualty at Arch Insurance International.

Mr Whitlock joined Arch in January and was most recently northern region casualty underwriting manager.

He was formerly Chubb casualty segment leader for the major accounts division, and held broking roles at Brown & Brown in London.

“His contribution to the growth of our northern region portfolio has been significant, and he has demonstrated the leadership, commitment and commercial focus needed to take our business forward” Mr Brannigan said.

“We’re confident he will play an important role in strengthening our presence and casualty offering across Australia, while continuing to deliver outstanding support to our brokers.”

Arch Insurance Australia serves a range of industries and professions in the accident and health, casualty, financial and property lines.

It says the casualty portfolio spans primary and excess liability placements across a broad risk appetite, with a focus on products-led risks including manufacturing, wholesale, retail, importing and exporting.

“Andrew’s appointment is a positive step for our continued growth plans in casualty across our international platform, strengthening the alignment between our retail operations in Australia and our wholesale team in the London market,” Mr Mecham said.

“I look forward to working with him as we deliver on our strategy in what remains a core line of business for Arch.”