Topsail Re Strengthens Leadership with Chris Bilski’s Appointment as SVP of Underwriting
Topsail Re, a prominent player in the reinsurance sector, has recently announced the strategic appointment of Chris Bilski as Senior Vice President of Underwriting. This pivotal role will see Bilski at the helm of underwriting, marketing, and account management, reinforcing the company’s commitment to delivering superior reinsurance solutions.
Chris Bilski’s Extensive Experience in Reinsurance
Bringing a wealth of experience to his new position, Chris Bilski has a robust background in reinsurance and actuarial science. Before joining Topsail Re, he served as Managing Director at Howden Re from July 2023 until February 2025. His previous tenure at IAT Insurance Group spanned over five years, where he held the same title, solidifying his reputation in the industry.
Bilski’s career also includes nearly two decades at Munich Re, one of the world’s leading reinsurers. During his time there, he occupied various underwriting and actuarial leadership roles, showcasing his versatility and expertise across multiple lines of business, including casualty, property, and surety.
Key Achievements and Responsibilities
In his role at Munich Re, Bilski was instrumental in managing a significant portfolio, overseeing pricing and portfolio management for a $450 million book of national accounts. His responsibilities included underwriting referrals and participating in critical management decisions as the deputy to the head of national clients casualty. This extensive background equips him with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the reinsurance market effectively.
Bilski’s professional credentials are impressive. He is a Fellow of the Casualty Actuarial Society (FCAS) and a member of the American Academy of Actuaries (MAAA). Additionally, he holds an Associate in Reinsurance (ARe) designation. His academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Penn State University, complemented by dual minors in Computer Science and Management Information Systems.
Commitment to Professional Development
Further enhancing his qualifications, Bilski completed an executive education program in negotiation and competitive decision-making at Harvard Business School. This combination of technical expertise and leadership training positions him as a valuable asset to Topsail Re as they continue to expand their market presence.
Strengthening Topsail Re’s Operations
Topsail Re is not only enhancing its underwriting capabilities with Bilski’s appointment but is also focusing on bolstering its analytics and reinsurance accounting functions. The company has recently welcomed Joel Belliveau as Vice President of Analytics and Jessica Hall as Reinsurance Accounting Manager. These strategic hires reflect Topsail Re’s commitment to leveraging data-driven insights and maintaining robust financial operations.
The Future of Topsail Re
As Topsail Re continues to evolve in the competitive reinsurance landscape, Chris Bilski’s leadership is poised to drive innovation and operational excellence. His extensive experience and proven track record will be crucial as the company seeks to enhance its service offerings and respond to the dynamic needs of its clients.
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Final Thoughts
In summary, the appointment of Chris Bilski as Senior Vice President of Underwriting at Topsail Re marks a significant step forward for the company. With his extensive background and commitment to excellence, Bilski is set to play a key role in shaping the future of Topsail Re and its operations in the reinsurance market. As the industry continues to evolve, the strategic decisions made today will undoubtedly influence the trajectory of reinsurance companies for years to come.