AEGIS London has announced the promotion of Simon Cooper, to the newly created role of head of underwriting insight.

Previously head of speciality, Cooper will be succeeded by Ben Lockwood who was previously the specialty team’s deputy head.

The new role has been created to echo the growing importance of managing data throughout the underwriting process.

Cooper joined AEGIS London in 2012 after 30 years with Atrium Syndicate. He has also held positions on various Lloyd’s market committees including deputy chairman of the Joint Hull Committee.

Alex Powell, chief underwriting officer added: “AEGIS London is always proud to build out its team organically whenever possible. Simon’s role recognises our intent to keep developing our business by investing further in our underwriting knowledge. Ben has been close to the specialty teams for a few years and his promotion bears testament to us fulfilling our development plans.”

Cooper said: “This is a fascinating time for the insurance market as we grapple with digital opportunities and threats. As an underwriter, I’m all too aware that our decisions are frequently based on imperfect knowledge but by deploying data we collect strategically we can radically improve that.”

Lockwood commented: “Having had the privilege to be Simon’s deputy, I’m greatly looking forward to the challenge of leading our specialty team. This is an exciting market for specialty classes which AEGIS London is ideally positioned to benefit from.”