Lloyd’s specialty insurer Atrium has named Rob James as Underwriter in its Aviation division.
James will work alongside Bassel Matta, Head of Aviation, to strengthen the company’s established aviation portfolio.
- James brings more than 17 years of underwriting experience. He joins from Liberty Specialty Markets, where he led the build-out of its all-risk and war aviation portfolio. Before that, he spent 12 years in the aviation unit at Tokio Marine Kiln.
- Peter Laidlaw, Active Underwriter for Syndicate 609, called James “a talented underwriter with a track record for innovative thinking” and said his expertise will enhance service for brokers and clients.
Matta said the appointment reinforces Atrium’s commitment to the aviation line, adding that James’s business development and strategic planning skills will support further growth.
We are looking forward to welcoming Rob to Atrium. He is a talented underwriter with an excellent reputation for being innovative and forward-thinking. I am sure his robust skillset and experience will be an outstanding addition to the service we deliver to our brokers and clients.
Peter Laidlaw, Active Underwriter, Syndicate 609
James is set to join Atrium in Q1 2026 after completing his current contractual obligations.
In July, Atrium Underwriting Group announced it has entered into an agreement to be acquired by independent brokerage and underwriting specialty insurance distributor CRC Insurance Group.
CRC will acquire the MGA from funds managed by Stone Point Capital and other investors, according to the statement.
Atrium will retain its brand name and independence, operating under its current management within CRC Group. The value of the transaction was not disclosed.
The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.
Atrium operates as an underwriting business at Lloyd’s, managing Syndicate 609 and writing specialty insurance and reinsurance across property, casualty, and specialty business groups. The company reported $1.3 bn in gross written premiums in 2024.
