About This Role
This executive leadership role combines underwriting leadership with portfolio strategy and cross-functional collaboration to drive profitability, growth, and risk discipline across aviation and space segments. The Head of Aerospace will shape underwriting standards, lead a high-performing team, and build deep broker and client partnerships to advance AXA XL's position as a premier aviation center of expertise.
Responsibilities
- Set and execute the underwriting strategy for the aerospace portfolio, aligning with the Aerospace unit's goals and AXA XL's risk appetite
- Own P&L responsibility for the aviation and space book, delivering profitable premium, rate adequacy, and loss ratio targets
- Lead, coach, and develop a senior underwriting team; establish career paths, performance metrics, and succession planning
- Oversee renewal management and new business production, ensuring high-quality risk selection and consistent application of underwriting standards
- Build and deepen relationships with brokers and key clients; identify and establish new distribution channels and market opportunities
- Collaborate with actuarial, claims, product, legal, and IT to shape risk pricing, product development, and policy language
- Govern underwriting processes, internal controls, and compliance with regulatory and corporate standards
- Drive risk mitigation and portfolio improvements through data analytics, scenario planning, and market intelligence
- Represent AXA XL in industry forums, market discussions, and client events; promote AXA XL's capabilities and thought leadership
- Manage budget, resources, and performance reporting; continuously improve efficiency and effectiveness of the underwriting function
- This position will report to the CUO Specialty, Americas
Requirements
- Extensive aerospace underwriting experience, with a track record of profitability and portfolio growth
- Demonstrated leadership experience; proven ability to build, mentor, and retain a high-performing underwriting team
- Deep knowledge of aviation and space risks, including general aviation and segments with diverse aircraft types and operations
- Proven analytical, negotiation, and strategic thinking skills; excellent written and verbal communication
- Ability to develop and communicate a clear underwriting vision and translate strategy into actionable plans
- Robust broker and client relationship management abilities; skilled in dealing with complex stakeholders
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and data-driven decision making; familiarity with underwriting platforms and tools
- Willingness to travel as needed to support market development and client engagement
- Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred
