New Leadership Appointments at SCOR and AXIS Capital Holdings: A Focus on Growth in Casualty Insurance
The insurance industry is undergoing significant transformations, and recent leadership changes at SCOR and AXIS Capital Holdings illustrate this dynamic landscape. These appointments highlight the companies’ commitment to enhancing their casualty insurance segments, driving growth, and leveraging experienced leadership.
Holger Schaefer Appointed as Global Head of Casualty & EIL at SCOR
On March 1, 2025, SCOR announced the appointment of Holger Schaefer as the new Global Head of Casualty and Environmental Impairment Liability (EIL) within SCOR Business Solutions. Schaefer, who previously spent 35 years at Allianz Group, will be based in Cologne and report directly to Claire McDonald, the CEO of SCOR Business Solutions.
Schaefer takes over from Daniel Carerras, who transitioned to the role of Chief Underwriting Officer for Casualty across both insurance and reinsurance sectors in 2024. With extensive experience in underwriting and sales, Schaefer has held various senior management roles, including Head of Casualty for Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty (AGCS) Germany and CEO of AGCS Pacific in Sydney. His leadership will be crucial as SCOR aims to expand its operations across the United States, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region.
SCOR’s Strategic Expansion in Casualty Insurance
Under Schaefer’s leadership, SCOR Business Solutions is poised for growth, particularly in its casualty insurance offerings. The recent addition of Brett Solway to lead the UK Casualty book signifies SCOR’s intention to strengthen its market position. The company is focusing on innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of clients in a competitive landscape.
Steve Cucciniello Promoted to Head of Primary Casualty at AXIS
In a parallel move, AXIS Capital Holdings Ltd., based in Bermuda, has announced the promotion of Steve Cucciniello to Head of Primary Casualty, effective immediately. Cucciniello, who reports to Anna Tan, the Head of Wholesale Casualty at AXIS, will oversee the Primary Casualty team and drive the company’s strategic initiatives in this area.
Cucciniello has been with AXIS since 2014 and brings over 30 years of industry experience to his new role. His previous position as Senior Vice President of Primary Casualty equipped him with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead the team effectively. His promotion underscores AXIS’s commitment to targeted growth within the casualty insurance sector, particularly in industries such as construction, manufacturing, real estate, and hospitality.
The Future of Casualty Insurance
The appointments of Schaefer and Cucciniello reflect a broader trend within the insurance industry, where companies are increasingly focusing on strengthening their leadership teams to navigate the complexities of the market. As the demand for casualty insurance continues to rise, driven by economic and regulatory changes, firms like SCOR and AXIS are positioning themselves to capitalize on new opportunities.
Both leaders bring a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success, which will be instrumental in driving their respective companies forward. Their strategic vision and leadership will not only enhance operational efficiencies but also improve customer service and engagement.
In Summary
The recent leadership changes at SCOR and AXIS Capital Holdings signify a robust approach to growth in the casualty insurance sector. With Holger Schaefer and Steve Cucciniello at the helm, both companies are well-equipped to tackle the challenges of the evolving insurance landscape. As they implement their strategies, industry stakeholders will be keenly observing how these changes impact their market positions and overall performance.
For more insights into the insurance industry, visit Insurance Journal or explore SCOR’s official site and AXIS Capital’s website.