Optio Group, the specialty MGA, today announces it has appointed Steve Thompson as head of accident & health (A&H) with immediate effect.

Based in London and reporting to Optio’s global head of A&H Dr Ahmed Ramadan, Thompson will be responsible for the underwriting and development of A&H business primarily in the UK, Europe and APAC regions.

Thompson brings over 22 years of experience underwriting global A&H business in both the Lloyd’s and composite markets. He joins from independent Lloyd’s broker and coverholder Shepherd Compello Limited, where he served as divisional director - A&H. During his career, Thompson has also held senior A&H roles at Nexus Underwriting, Aspen, AmTrust Europe, Canopius and AIG.

Dr Ahmed Ramadan said: “With more than two decades of senior-level A&H experience, Steve was the ideal choice to lead the development of our A&H business across Europe and APAC. He is a well-regarded specialist in binder, scheme, affinity, niche A&H insurance and reinsurance business and also brings deep global industry connections. I’m sure he will make a significant contribution to the further development of Optio’s A&H proposition and I am delighted to welcome him to the team.”