UK government-backed terrorism mutual Pool Re has appointed Howard Cheetham as head of distribution.

In his new role, Cheetham will be responsible for increasing the uptake of terrorism insurance across the UK, particularly among SMEs.

He will report to Pool Re chief underwriting officer Steve Coates.

Cheetham has held several executive positions within the (re)insurance industry, including CEO of Flagstone Re’s UK and global business.

He began his career with Sedgwick Group, later joining Leslie and Godwin in 1986 as managing director and chairman of services.

Following Leslie and Godwin’s acquisition by Aon, Cheetham was appointed as managing director of Aon Re Japan. In 2006, In addition to his new role at Pool Re, Cheetham is also chairman of EC3 Insurance Brokers.

“Terrorism insurance penetration among SMEs and outside of major urban centres remains markedly low. A key pillar in Pool Re’s strategy is to ensure that every business in the UK is aware of and has access to terrorism cover. As part of our modernisation proposals we launched our SME proposition which offers a 40% discount for insureds with less than £2m material damage sum insured,” remarked Coates.

“Howard’s appointment represents the next stage of our strategy. He is recognised and respected across our market and is the ideal candidate to work with our stakeholders to realise our goal of increasing the uptake of terrorism insurance, particularly among SMEs,” he continued.