Canopius Group has recruited AIG executive Soon Keen Lee as CEO of Asia-Pacific and the Middle East and North Africa.

Ms Lee takes over from Mark Newman, who has been appointed to lead the company’s UK business, based in London.

Canopius Group CEO Neil Robertson says Ms Lee has all the qualities needed to help the company grow in the region.

“SK brings fantastic experience, a deep knowledge of the market and her leadership style will complement our strong positive and winning culture,” he said.

At AIG, Ms Lee most recently managed the Asia-Pacific commercial property and SME portfolio. She has also worked at Catlin and Aspen Re during a 28-year career that has included high-profile property and casualty insurance roles.

Canopius says she will join the group leadership team and lead the regional executive committee. She is charged with continuing to evolve the Asia-Pacific operation, which grew by 35% last year.

“There are many exciting opportunities for us to not only cement our status as the leading Lloyd’s syndicate in Singapore but also to develop our fast-growing proposition in Australia,” Ms Lee said.

She will join Canopius, a global specialty and property and casualty insurer and reinsurer, before the end of this quarter and will report to Mr Robertson.