Surety division introduced by Rokstone in its expansion
Rokstone, a part of the Aventum Group and one of the largest and fastest-growing Managing General Agents (MGAs) in the world, has announced the launch of a new Surety Division and a US-based Sports & Leisure Casualty division.
The new Surety Division, led by specialist bond underwriter Darren Guymer, aims to address significant challenges in the surety market. With over 15 years of experience, Darren Guymer brings extensive expertise, having previously held senior underwriting positions at First Underwriting and Aviva. The division offers A-rated capacity and a broad underwriting appetite across various sectors.
Rokstone's Surety Division is equipped with a proprietary underwriting workbench, providing unparalleled service. The division complements the MGA's existing Credit & Surety Treaty division, further enhancing its capabilities in the surety market.
In the US, Rokstone has launched a new Sports & Leisure Casualty division, led by Charles Landrum. Charles Landrum brings extensive experience to his role, having worked in the insurance industry for many years. The division will focus on providing insurance solutions for sports and leisure businesses.
Meanwhile, Rokstone has appointed Lewis Goodearl as Head of a new UK and Ireland Casualty division. Lewis Goodearl, with over 30 years of experience specializing in the insurance industry, will lead the new division.
Ian Anson, Global CEO at Rokstone, believes that these new divisions will help businesses, especially Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), obtain bonds in a softening market. He also expressed excitement about the growth potential for Surety at Rokstone.
In addition to these developments, Rokstone has acquired a second box at Lloyd's, further cementing its position in the market. This move comes just six months after announcing its first box at Lloyd's.
Rokstone underwrites more than USD 1.1 billion in Gross Written Premium (GWP) across multiple Specialty lines, including property, aviation, and commercial business, often backed by prominent Lloyd’s syndicates.
The strategic moves by Rokstone in the specialty insurance sector, including a notable five-year capacity agreement with Allianz Commercial announced in early 2025, reflect their strengthened underwriting capabilities and market positioning. These developments demonstrate Rokstone's commitment to expanding its underwriting portfolio broadly in specialty lines and its innovative approach to addressing challenges in the industry.
In conclusion, Rokstone's new divisions and strategic moves in the surety and specialty insurance markets demonstrate the company's commitment to innovation, growth, and addressing market challenges. With its strong Lloyd's-backed capacity, strategic alliances, and disciplined underwriting approach, Rokstone is well-positioned to meet the needs of businesses in the softening market.
[Sources: 3, 4]
- Insurtech sector is poised for growth as Rokstone, a leading MGA, expands its underwriting capabilities in the surety market through the launch of a new Surety Division.
- With the introduction of a US-based Sports & Leisure Casualty division, Rokstone bolsters its presence in the finance industry, providing insurance solutions for sports and leisure businesses.
- The strategic moves by Rokstone in the specialty insurance industry, such as the acquisition of a second box at Lloyd's and the collaboration with Allianz Commercial, demonstrate the company's dedication to Industry events, including broadening its underwriting portfolio and addressing market challenges.