United Risk, a global leader in property and casualty insurance underwriting and distribution, has announced the promotion of Hayden Smith to Regional CEO. In his new role, Smith will be responsible for driving the company’s growth and operations across the European Union (EU), the United Kingdom (UK), the British Commonwealth, and other emerging markets.
He will operate from United Risk’s London headquarters, overseeing a strategic push into new territories and strengthening the insurer’s international presence.
Hayden Smith Brings Extensive Industry Experience
Smith joined United Risk in January 2023 as a Managing Partner, where he played a critical role in building out the company’s international (non-U.S.) platform.
Prior to joining United Risk, Smith was Vice President of Mergers & Acquisitions at Applied Underwriters, a key player in the insurance space. He also held senior positions at Enstar Group, serving as VP of M&A, and began his insurance career as a Junior Broker at JLT Group.
His promotion reflects United Risk’s commitment to bringing experienced leadership to the forefront of its global expansion efforts.
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Spinout and Growth Strategy Backed by Strategic Partners
This leadership update comes on the heels of the April 2025 announcement by Jamie Sahara, President of Applied Underwriters, about the spinout of United Risk. The company is expanding its reach beyond the U.S., where it already has a strong presence, by accelerating its European and global growth strategy.
The European expansion is being led by Applied Financial Lines, United Risk’s specialty division based in Cologne and Paris. That division is headed by Jeroen Claesen, President and Chief Underwriting Officer (CUO) for Europe and the Middle East.
Sahara commented,
“These advances and promotions reflect our continued response to strong market demand for United Risk’s expertise and specialized insurance programs. Our leadership team and underwriting professionals deliver outstanding value to brokers, clients, and their insureds.”
Strategic Support from American Atlantic Assurance Company
United Risk’s rapid international growth is being supported by its strategic partner, American Atlantic Assurance Company, a new insurer created by North American Casualty Co. Operational since January 1, 2025, American Atlantic has been granted authority to underwrite property and casualty insurance across the EU.
This partnership enhances United Risk’s capacity to deliver tailored insurance programs throughout Europe, positioning it as a top choice for brokers and clients in need of specialized coverages.
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Robust Portfolio of Specialty Insurance Solutions
United Risk is expanding its footprint by leveraging its diversified underwriting units, each targeting high-demand sectors. These include:
- Applied Crisis Underwriters: Specializing in war and political violence insurance, including property damage, business interruption, and liability coverage.
- First Specialty Excess: Focused on large account excess casualty insurance.
- Applied Logistics Underwriters: Covering critical sectors like logistics, marine, and transportation insurance.
- Applied Credit Underwriters: Offering structured credit insurance, political risk, and contract frustration solutions for global markets.
- Applied Entertainment and Sports: Providing bespoke insurance for media, entertainment, and sports organizations.
Sahara added,
“We’re committed to deepening our presence across the UK, EU, and select emerging markets through our combined capabilities and world-class underwriting teams.”
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Conclusion: A Strategic Step in United Risk’s Global Expansion
Hayden Smith’s promotion to Regional CEO depicts the focus of United Risk on strategic growth, international leadership, and expanding specialty insurance solutions in global markets. With strong leadership, a growing suite of niche insurance offerings, and backing from a powerful reinsurance partner, United Risk is well-positioned to become a dominant force in the UK, Europe, and beyond.
