Liberty Specialty Markets (LSM) has appointed Hans Towler as the successor to its current head of aviation reinsurance, Chris Rudd.

In his new role, Towler will initially work alongside Rudd, before taking control of the division after Rudd retires next March having run the aviation reinsurance unit since 2001.

He will report to LSM’s chief underwriting officer for reinsurance, Dieter Winkel.

Towler joins LSM with more than 30 years’ experience in the London aviation reinsurance market.

He moves over Willis, where he was a member of the senior management team of the aviation treaty division for seven years in what was his second time working for the broker.

Prior to that, he served an 11-year stretch at rival Aon Benfield, having already spent 13 years in the aviation excess of loss team at Willis Re.

Commenting on the hire, Winkel said: “Hans is a highly experienced and talented leader with considerable experience of aviation reinsurance.”

“His knowledge and strategic insight will ensure the division continues to perform successfully,” he concluded.