Former Arch Insurance Australia executive assurance underwriting manager Paula Ritchie has joined HDI Global Specialty SE as Head of Single Risk Business for Australia and New Zealand.

“This strategic local appointment underlines our commitment to growing our role in speciality lines in the region," Australia MD Mark Fleiser said.

HDI Global Specialty says Ms Ritchie will "spearhead open market individual risk business growth across financial lines, aviation, crisis management, as well as sports leisure and entertainment".

Mr Fleiser says the appointment "reflects the confidence we have in Paula to make a positive and proactive contribution to our activities".

Ms Ritchie has more than 25 years’ industry experience, having also worked at CGU, QBE, Marsh and WR Berkley.