Recently launched aviation hull and war MGA Hive Aero has appointed Will Gaunt as aviation war class underwriter.

Gaunt moves over to Hive Aero from Talbot, where he most recently served as class underwriter for its general aviation book. Prior to joining Talbot in 2009, he worked at XL Group.

In his new role, Gaunt will work alongside chief underwriting officer (CUO) Bruce Carman, who founded the new MGA platform in November 2017. It was granted Lloyd’s coverholder status the following month.

Prior to forming Hive Aero, Carman was partner and underwriter at Cathedral, having joined from Atrium in October 2014, where spent 27 years leading the carrier’s hull and war book.

The MGA, which specialises in aviation hull war insurance, began underwriting in April with an initial stamp capacity of $50mn per aircraft risk for the account of major Lloyd’s carriers Beazley, Arch, Chaucer and Dale.

Carman said: “I am delighted to welcome Will to Hive Aero and very much look forward to working closely with him. His knowledge and relationships within the aviation sector will be a huge asset to us.”

Gaunt added: “I am excited to join Hive Aero and look forward to helping grow the business. The opportunity to assist in developing the highly analytical capacity offered by Hive Aero in this niche market is very appealing.”