Independent specialty MGA HIVE Underwriters has announced a major strategic expansion into the space insurance sector with the appointment of Jack Kenneally as class underwriter.
Kenneally will join the firm following the completion of his contractual obligations with his current employer, Occam Underwriting, a Brown & Brown company, according to InsurTech Insights.
Initially launched with an emphasis on aviation hull war, the firm has since broadened its portfolio to include airline and general aviation hull and liabilities, hull war, and excess aviation war liabilities (XS AVN52).
The move into the space insurance sector signifies another leap forward in its strategy of growth through diversification.
Kenneally is widely regarded as one of the London market’s most respected space underwriters.
With a proven track record in technical performance and a robust network of industry relationships, Kenneally’s underwriting philosophy aligns closely with HIVE’s rigorous, data-centric model. His appointment underscores the company’s intent to attract top-tier underwriting talent in specialty lines.
HIVE’s expansion into space insurance supports the firm’s ambition to provide a broader range of specialist insurance solutions.
It also highlights the increasing demand within the market for independent MGAs that combine technical strength with entrepreneurial agility.
HIVE Underwriters CEO Bruce Carman said, “HIVE’s appeal lies in its dynamic culture, where autonomy, alignment, and entrepreneurial ambition thrive. Jack is a highly respected underwriter in the space market with a proven track record, and I am delighted he has chosen to join us and build HIVE’s space team. This expansion is not only a major step for HIVE—but it also reflects the growing appetite in the market for expert-led MGAs that combine technical discipline with entrepreneurial ambition.”
HIVE chief development officer Henning Haagen added, “The space insurance market is evolving, and it needs fresh thinking—underwriters who can combine deep technical understanding with a forward-looking, analytical mindset. Jack brings exactly that. His move to HIVE reflects the growing appeal of independent, agile platforms that empower underwriters to lead. Opportunities like this aren’t limited to space—we’re seeing them emerge across a range of specialty classes as HIVE continues to build out its business.”
Jack Kenneally said, “I am thrilled to be joining HIVE. It’s exciting to be part of a fast-growing MGA, especially one with such an excellent culture. The team they’ve brought together is really strong, and importantly, it’s underwriting-centric. By being nimble and forward-thinking, HIVE has developed systems and technology that equip their underwriters with novel tools the rest of the market struggles to compete with. I am looking forward to building on the success they have already achieved.”
With this appointment, HIVE continues to position itself as a platform of choice for top specialist underwriters seeking a high-performance, independent MGA environment.
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