Canopius Group has appointed Robert Barnum as Underwriter Professional Lines, Australia and Asia Pacific as the firm looks to expand its operations in the region.

Mr Barnum’s responsibilities involve establishing a professional lines practice across the Asia Pacific. Canopius says his focus will be on open market professional indemnity and coverholder business in Australia, working closely with the casualty team.

“Rob's appointment reinforces our commitment to fortifying our presence in Australia and expanding our reach in the broader Asia Pacific market,” Canopius Head of Australia & Pacific Claudio Saita said.

“His proven track record and leadership qualities make him a valuable addition to Canopius, and we look forward to leveraging his expertise to deliver innovative solutions and further drive growth across the region.”

Mr Barnum, based in Sydney, has more than 10 years’ financial lines experience and was most recently Head of Professional Lines & Cyber Asia Pacific at Axis Capital in Singapore. Previously, he held similar roles at Axa XL and Lloyd’s syndicate Catlin in Australia. 

“As we continue to strengthen our leadership team in the Asia Pacific region, the addition of Robert Barnum to Canopius is a significant milestone,” Head of Casualty Asia Pacific Craig Elliot said.

The global speciality insurer and reinsurer underwrites through Lloyd’s Syndicate 4444, managed by Canopius Managing Agents, a US surplus lines insurer and Bermuda-based Canopius Reinsurance.

The company has targeted expansion locally since establishing its first Australian office in Sydney in 2019.