AXIS Capital announced that it has agreed to acquire the renewal rights to the excess liability business of DUAL North America (“DUAL”).

DUAL is a specialty program administrator and part of DUAL Group, the specialist underwriting arm of Howden Group.

AXIS Capital, through its operating subsidiaries, is a global specialty underwriter and provider of insurance and reinsurance solutions.

AXIS said that John Kopach, executive vice president of DUAL Excess Liability, will join AXIS as part of the terms of the deal.

Financial terms were not disclosed, nor was the premium volume associated with the renewals.

In his new role at AXIS, Kopach will serve as Head of Wholesale Lower Middle Market, succeeding Britt Smith who retired from the Company in August. Kopach will be based in the Company’s Atlanta office, reporting to AXIS Head of North America Mike McKenna.

“This transaction reflects the strong partnership and strategic relationship that AXIS shares with DUAL, and we are enthused to add this high-quality Excess Liability book to our Casualty platform,” said McKenna.

According to a media statement, AXIS and DUAL will work closely together to ensure a seamless transition for brokers and policyholders in the weeks ahead, anticipating limited interruption of service throughout the process.

Ed Ashby, chief executive officer of DUAL North America said that the deal positions his company to “double down” on the parts of DUAL’s casualty business where the specialist sees “clearest path to lead.” At the same time, selling to AXIS gives the exiting book “a strong home to keep building on what’s been achieved,” he said, noting Kopach’s achievements in growing the business.

Source: AXIS Capital