AXA XL, an insurance and risk management solutions provider, has appointed Donnacha Smyth as its new global chief underwriting officer (CUO) for casualty, effective from 3 November 2025.

Smyth, who is currently based in Bermuda, holds the position of casualty head for the Americas region and is set to move to Ireland in 2026 as he transitions into his new role.

With more than three decades of experience in the insurance industry, Smyth has been part of AXA XL, a unit of French insurance major AXA, since 2007.

He has led the Americas casualty team since 2018, overseeing the casualty practice in a key region that includes primary risk management, excess risk management, multinational group captives, rail and multiple underwriting teams across the US and Bermuda.

Smyth will continue to manage casualty operations in the Americas until a successor is appointed.

In his new capacity, Smyth will work alongside regional CUOs to support “profitable” growth, maintain underwriting consistency and lead the creation of new products.

He will also be responsible for the development of underwriters through focused training and skill enhancement, ensuring adherence to quality standards, compliance and best practices.

AXA XL global CUO Libby Benet said: “Throughout his tenure at AXA XL, Donnacha has demonstrated exceptional leadership by redefining the excess liability appetite and collaborating closely with underwriting and actuarial teams to execute portfolio transformations that lead to strong and consistent underwriting performance.

“His strategic vision and dedication to developing talent have helped him build strong relationships with colleagues, clients and brokers, fostering a culture of underwriting excellence and innovation. Donnacha’s commitment to talent development and relationship-building will be invaluable as he leads AXA XL’s casualty underwriting strategy on a global scale.”

In July this year, AXA XL launched cybersecurity assessment services for its cyber insurance policyholders in North America.