Global specialty reinsurer Canopius Group has appointed Neil Robertson as Group CEO with immediate effect.

Mr Robertson, who joined in May last year as deputy Group CEO, will lead the business in setting and achieving its strategic ambitions, furthering its distinctiveness and delivering enhanced returns for shareholders.

He will also focus on developing the business’s Asia-Pacific, Bermudian and US operations.

“Recent months have shown [his] exceptional talents as a motivational leader and a builder of effective teams, which will help propel us to the next level,” Group Chairman and CEO Michael Watson said.

Mr Watson, who led the business for 20 years, will continue as Group Chairman.