Former Axis Specialty COO Tony Wheatley has been appointed CEO of WR Berkley Insurance Australia.

Mr Wheatley will join the company in July. His background includes a broad expertise in managing insurance companies, managing general agents and insurance and reinsurance portfolios.

WR Berkley Corporation President and COO Robert Berkley says the appointment is a significant step for the company’s Australian branch and its expansion plans.

The group plans to enter new regions and develop new product lines, with the aim of building the company up from the established professional lines and general liability business of the past five years.

“Tony has proved he can build a business model and culture that will attract the best people in the industry, and the group is looking forward to having him on board to drive the future strategy for WR Berkley Insurance Australia,” Mr Berkley said.