Design Highlights
- Matthew Stitham has been promoted to Chief Underwriting Officer for Casualty, Americas, effective January 2026.
- He will oversee casualty underwriting operations, including General Liability and Worker’s Compensation.
- Stitham brings over 18 years of industry experience and a proven track record to the role.
- His expertise is crucial for navigating rising claim severities and a challenging liability landscape.
- Stitham will report directly to Donna Nadeau, ensuring a structured transition and stability for AXA XL.
AXA XL has made a bold move by promoting Matthew Stitham to Chief Underwriting Officer, Casualty, in the Americas, effective January 2026. This isn’t just any promotion; it’s a significant shift in a tumultuous liability landscape.
Stitham is stepping into shoes left by Donnacha Smyth, who had the audacity to take on a global role. Guess what? Stitham has been with AXA XL since 2007. That’s over 18 years of experience, so he knows a thing or two about the industry.
Stitham steps into big shoes as he takes the helm with 18 years of AXA XL experience.
Starting his career in underwriting at Zurich and Travelers, Stitham has held multiple leadership roles. He’s not just a random pick; he was previously the Head of West Excess and the Head of Excess Casualty. Stitham has a solid track record and a deep understanding of casualty market dynamics. It’s not like the company just threw darts at a board to find their next CUO; they obviously chose someone with a strategic vision.
Now, let’s talk about what Stitham is in charge of. He’ll oversee the casualty underwriting operations across the Americas. That means everything from General Liability to Worker’s Compensation and Commercial Auto. He’s got a lot on his plate. This isn’t a role for the faint of heart.
With rising claim severities and social inflation, the stakes are high. It’s a wild world out there, and Stitham is expected to navigate these choppy waters like a pro. His appointment comes at a time when emerging liability risks are making everyone nervous. Recent data shows that the average cost of claims from 2021-2022 reached $44,179, underscoring the financial pressures facing the industry. IICF leadership changes have highlighted the need for strong leadership in the insurance sector, making Stitham’s role even more critical. Additionally, his extensive experience ensures that he is well-equipped to address casualty underwriting capabilities in a rapidly evolving market.
Stitham’s expertise in catastrophic claims will be a lifeline for clients trying to keep their heads above water. The liability market is changing, and having someone like Stitham on board is a smart move for AXA XL. He’s not just filling a role; he’s stepping up as a trusted partner for clients amid this uncertain landscape.
The company is banking on his experience to grow their casualty underwriting capabilities. Let’s face it, in this environment, they need someone who can handle the pressure. As Stitham takes on this leadership role, he’ll be reporting to Donna Nadeau, AXA XL’s Head of Large Commercial business.
It’s a structured succession plan that makes sense. After all, with Smyth now overseeing operations worldwide, it’s essential to have someone like Stitham who knows the ins and outs of the market. Buckle up, because Stitham is ready to steer the ship through these stormy seas.
