Former Canopius finance director Rob Harden has joined specialist MGA Ascent Underwriting as its new CFO.

During a career that spans more than two decades, Harden has held a number of senior finance and corporate development roles at the likes of Liberty Specialty Markets, Beazley, QBE, and Close Brothers. He most recently served as finance director of Canopius Managing Agents Limited for two years.

Harden’s hire follows the appointment of former Arch Insurance Europe CEO James Weatherstone as non-executive chairman in March. Both appointments come after the MGA received significant investment from private equity firm Preservation Capital last November to support its growth ambitions.

Ascent CEO David Umbers said: “Rob is an exceptionally talented individual with a mix of experience and financial expertise that will help propel Ascent toward its goals. 

“Huge opportunity exists within cyber and other emerging specialty lines. With Rob’s appointment, along with James’ and with Preservation Capital’s backing, the team is ready to take full advantage of that opportunity.”

Harden added: “I am delighted to be joining Ascent at such an exciting time in the development of the business. I look forward to working with David and the team to build further on the success of the business as we embark upon the next phase of our growth journey”.