Martin Reith to work with Acrisure’s Ben Canagaretna on third-party capital initiatives

Global fintech Acrisure has appointed Martin Reith as Executive Chairman of Volante, a Lloyd’s business with managing general agent (MGA) operations, which will see him advise Ben Canagaretna, Managing Director of Acrisure Re Corporate Advisory and Solutions (ARCAS), as well as review and provide advice on Acrisure’s interest in accessing third-party capital.

Based in London, Reith will report to both Matt Schweinzger and Grahame Millwater, Acrisure’s Executives whose responsibilities include Acrisure Re, their London based and International based businesses, as well as all global MGAs and Programs.

At the same time, Reith will also work closely with Volante CEO Talbir Bains, along with the firm’s Executive team.

Overall, Reith brings four decades of expertise across the insurance and reinsurance sector towards his new role, having previously held leadership roles in underwriting, distribution and alternative capital. In his most recent role, he served as CEO at Helios Underwriting PLC.

Readers may also be aware that Reith was the founder and CEO of Ascot Underwriting, which he established back in 2001.

As well as this, he has also previously served in a number of different advisory roles in a non-executive director capacity at various companies within and outside of the re/insurance market.

Talbir Bains, Founder & CEO, commented: “We warmly welcome Martin Reith to Volante Global. Martin’s extensive experience and proven track record in the re/insurance sector make him well qualified to collaborate with the executive team on our strategic initiatives for 2025 and beyond.

“As we embark on a year of a significant growth plan for syndicate 1699, the addition of Martin’s expertise will position us for continued success to deliver respectable underwriting profit in a competitive landscape.”

Schweinzger said: “As Acrisure continues to expand, we want to ensure we are benefiting from the most experienced leaders in the London market and beyond. Martin’s expertise will add tremendous value across several areas of our business.” Millwater added: “I have had the advantage of knowing Martin over many years, and his reputation and extensive network of long-term relationships will be extremely valuable and further strengthen our leadership team.”

Addressing his appointment, Reith said: “I am thrilled to join Volante and to support the Executive team. The business has a unique model that will offer significant opportunities in 2025 and beyond.”

Adding: “I have enjoyed watching Acrisure’s successful international expansion thus far and I look forward to working with Matt and Grahame, as well as many others at Acrisure.”