Is this you? As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.
Claim your profile
Articles by Victoria Basden
Why oh why do I need Tech PI?
As technology becomes increasingly embedded within financial institutions, it is arguable that through the inclusion of aspects such as proprietary software and embedded finance, even the most traditional businesses now need to consider whether their existing insurance arrangements cover their full range of risks. Now more than ever, it is crucial that firms ensure their insurance policies are aligned with the scope of the services they provide.
BMS Re US Appoints Tony Grippa as Chief Strategy Officer
BMS Re, the reinsurance arm of independent insurance and reinsurance broker BMS Group, today announced the appointment of Tony Grippa as Chief Strategy Officer for the US business. Grippa will report to Brad Melvin, President and CEO of BMS Re, and will serve on the firm’s US Executive Committee.
In memoriam: Eugenio Sánchez Belda
It is with deep sadness that BMS Group announces the passing of our dear colleague, Eugenio Sánchez Belda, who died on 20 December in Seville. Eugenio dedicated more than four decades to the insurance industry. He began his career as an insurance broker in 1979, founding Sánchez Belda Insurance Brokerage, where he specialised in industrial risks. He later served as President of Eisenar Insurance Brokerage until 2023, when the firm became part of BMS.
BMS appoints Charlie Emkes as director of commercial D&O
BMS, the independent insurance and reinsurance broker, announces the appointment of Charlie Emkes as director of commercial directors and officers (D&O) solutions, effective from January 2026. Based in London, he will report to Tom Spraggs, director and head of financial institutions - UK retail. The newly created role will advance the current commercial D&O strategy and lead new business development efforts in coordination with other BMS and DR&P colleagues.
BMS enters Indian market with Berns Brett partnership
BMS Group Ltd is delighted to announce a strategic partnership in India with Berns Brett India. Subject to regulatory approval, the company will be rebranded BMS (India) Ltd. Nick Gillett, CEO of BMS International, commented: “BMS’s regional investments from Turkey to India show the focus we are giving to these exciting areas of growth and our belief in their importance to the Group’s diversification and geographical strength.
BMS expands Middle East presence with BMS (DIFC) launch
BMS Group Ltd is pleased to announce the launch of BMS (DIFC) Ltd with immediate effect having secured the necessary Licence and Regulatory Approval. This secures another foundation stone of the Group’s regional strategy stretching from Turkey throughout the Middle East and North Africa. Ranji Sinha is formally appointed as SEO for BMS (DIFC) Ltd responsible for all business emanating from across the MENA regions plus Turkey and for all territories and classes underwritten in the DIFC.
BMS Re strengthens regional and mutuals expertise with new hires
BMS Re, the reinsurance arm of independent insurance and reinsurance broker BMS Group, today announces the strategic hires of Thomas Spataro and Thomas Spataro Jr., bringing decades of combined experience developing reinsurance solutions for regional and mutual insurance companies. They will be based in the Company’s Philadelphia office, reporting to Christa Coletti, Managing Director and Philadelphia Branch Manager.
AR policy statement – what could this mean for the insurance market?
Earlier this year, on 11 August, HM Treasury released a Policy Statement setting out the Government’s overall approach and targeted reforms of the Appointed Representatives (AR) legislative regime. The reforms carry important implications for principal firms, insurers and ARs alike.
BMS Group acquires boutique Australian property broker Corporate and…
BMS Group, the independent specialist insurance and reinsurance broker, today announces that it has completed the acquisition of QLD-based Corporate and Commercial Insurance Brokers. Corporate and Commercial Insurance Brokers was founded in 2006 providing risk management advice and insurance broking services to large, privately owned organisations.
US Coastal Closes $330M Inaugural Catastrophe Bond with BMS as Joint…
BMS is pleased to announce the successful closing of Chartwell Re Ltd.
BMS Group acquires Oria, expanding its presence in the Turkish market
BMS Group, a leading independent global insurance and reinsurance broker, has acquired Istanbul-based Oria Sigorta ve Reasürans Brokerliği A.Ş., further strengthening its position in the Turkish market. This acquisition reinforces not only BMS Group’s long-term commitment to Turkey but is a core part of its regional development as it expands further into the Middle East and beyond, and it significantly enhances its ability to deliver comprehensive, client-focused solutions across the region.
BMS Group announces appointment of Jean-Jacques Henchoz as Chairman…
BMS Group, the specialist insurance and reinsurance broker, is pleased to announce the appointment of Jean-Jacques Henchoz to the role of Chairman of the Board, effective May 1, 2025.
BMS Group completes acquisition of Spanish broker Rasher and its…
BMS Group, the specialist insurance and reinsurance broker, announced today that after obtaining regulatory approvals, it has completed the acquisition of insurance broker Rasher, which specialises in surety, credit, finance and risk management solutions for corporate clients. Rasher is headquartered in Spain and has subsidiaries in Colombia and Peru.
BMS Re makes two further senior London hires
BMS Re, the reinsurance arm of independent insurance and reinsurance broker BMS Group, today announces two senior appointments. Jonathan Hughes and Martin Bartell join BMS from Howden Re and will be based in London. Both will report directly to Hannah Watkins, Chief Growth Officer. Jonathan Hughes joins BMS Re as managing director – non-marine reinsurance. Hughes brings three decades of experience to the role across major industry players including Guy Carpenter, Axis and Aon.
BMS bolsters reinsurance leadership team with the appointment of…
BMS, the independent insurance and reinsurance broker, today announces the appointment of Genna Biddell as Managing Director and Head of London P&C Re. Biddell will report into Brad Melvin, president and CEO, BMS Re US. She will develop and oversee the London P&C reinsurance business while closely collaborating with the reinsurance and programmes teams across the US, London, and Bermuda.
The year ahead, part 2: the other key trends set to impact financial…
Last week I published a piece looking at some of the changes to financial regulation – of which there are a number – poised to come into effect in 2025. But while the impact of these changes will be significant, they are not the only trends set to shape the financial landscape over the year ahead – far from it.
The year ahead: an increasingly complex regulatory environment
With a considerable number of new rules and directives poised to reshape how companies, financial institutions and insurers navigate compliance and risk management, 2025 will see the regulation landscape undergo significant transformation.
BMS Group to acquire leading Spanish broker Rasher and its Latin…
BMS Group, the independent specialist insurance and reinsurance broker, today announces that it has entered into an agreement to acquire the leading insurance broker Rasher, subject to regulatory approvals. The Rasher business is based in Spain, with Latin American subsidiaries in Colombia and Peru. Rasher excels in providing surety, credit, and risk management solutions to corporate clients.
BMS continues to strengthen energy practice with three new senior…
BMS, the independent insurance and reinsurance broker, is pleased to announce the appointment of three new senior energy industry experts – Charlotte Marsh, Jack Palmer, and Toby Hanington - to its fast-growing energy team, following the appointment of Rob Neighbour earlier this year. All will be based in London. Charlotte Marsh has joined BMS Energy as Divisional Director.
FCA’s Anti Greenwashing Rules: Accountability Milestone or Litigation…
In May this year, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)’s anti-greenwashing rules came into force, applying to all regulated firms in the UK. Published as part of the regulator’s Sustainability Disclosure Requirements (SDR) regime, the new rules aim to enforce industry standards when it comes to the communication of sustainability-related claims within the financial services sector.
Case Study: Implementing Artificial Labs’ digital Contract Builder…
The context Blueprint Two (BP2) is the London Market’s modernisation programme aimed at delivering a digitally enabled marketplace. At its foundations are the Core Data Record (CDR) and the Market Reform Contract version 3 (MRCv3) – a new insurance contract in a changed format and structure that is machine readable.
BMS Specialty expands international footprint with the hiring of Ryan…
BMS Group (BMS), the independent specialist insurance and reinsurance broker, today announces the appointment of Ryan Phillips as Director & African Practice Leader. Based in London, Phillips will join BMS in March 2025, and will report to Paul Galvin, director. Phillips' geographical remit will encompass the entire African continent. He will collaborate closely with the wider BMS team, which primarily serves clients based in South Africa, to expand the regional footprint.
BMS Tropical Update - 11/15/2024
Since the last BMS Tropical Update, Sara has developed along the Honduras coastline. Sara is located close to Honduras' northern coast, with sustained winds of around 50 mph, as a tropical storm. As Sara continues to slowly skirt the northern coast of Honduras, it will dump a significant amount of rain inland. However, with that being said, the proximity to land is limiting organization and development.
BMS Tropical Update - 11/13/2024
The Atlantic hurricane season officially concludes at the end of November, and what may be its final chapter is now unfolding in the western Caribbean. It seems fitting that the intense 2024 Atlantic hurricane season might end on a dramatic note. Apparently, Hurricane Rafael did not make the cut, as it dissipated in the Central Gulf of Mexico on Sunday, November 10th. Now, a more dramatic ending that could possibly take shape could bring some late-season insurance industry losses.
BMS Tropical Update - 11/13/2024
The Atlantic hurricane season officially concludes at the end of November, and what may be its final chapter is now unfolding in the western Caribbean. It seems fitting that the intense 2024 Atlantic hurricane season might end on a dramatic note. Apparently, Hurricane Rafael did not make the cut, as it dissipated in the Central Gulf of Mexico on Sunday, November 10th. Now, a more dramatic ending that could possibly take shape could bring some late-season insurance industry losses.
The insurance perspective for ELTIF 2.0
Established in 2015 as a cross-border investment vehicle, the European Long-Term Investment Fund (ELTIF) has proven its ability to support economic growth, job creation, and the development of sustainable projects across the EU.
BMS Tropical Update - 10/31/2024
No need for Halloween scares This hurricane season has already been a challenging one for the insurance industry. Whether you are in the insurance or reinsurance industry or have been affected by Beryl, Debby, Francine, Helene, Milton, or any other hurricane, just like a scary movie, people are on the edge of their seats and are eager for this season to be over. However, there is still a month left in the 2024 Atlantic Hurricane season.
The risk landscape for UK Directors is becoming increasingly complex:…
With the Labour government now in power, it can be said with some certainty that there are numerous changes to UK regulation on the horizon. Picking up where Rishi Sunak left off, Keir Starmer has already made clear that he intends to address areas that are key to the economic growth – AI regulation and green investing being two that immediately spring to mind. And it’s not just the regulatory landscape that is evolving.
BMS Tropical Update - 10/10/2024
Milton Landfall Was Truly Historic Hurricane Milton made landfall near Siesta Key in Sarasota, which is just 12 miles south of Long Boat Key, FL. This event will mark the 44th major hurricane to make landfall in Florida since 1851. Unfortunately, the folklore of hurricane missing Sarasota due to native American burial grounds is demystified. This was the first major hurricane to hit the Sarasota area directly since 1851.
BMS Tropical Update - 10/09/2024
Nail Biter and Wobbles As of this morning, Milton is beginning to encounter unfavorable conditions and is no longer a Category 5. The satellite loop shows the eye becoming more offset, with signs that it is starting to fill in. These BMS Tropical Updates have provided ideas of what is possible with Hurricane Milton all week. With less than 15 hours before landfall, it still seems to be a nail-biter as Milton's only escape route out of the Eastern Gulf of Mexico is across Florida.
BMS Tropical Update - 10/08/2024
Folklore and hurricane category don’t matter There is a folklore surrounding why hurricanes do not make landfall in Sarasota! One version of the folklore suggests that Native American blessings or the presence of ancient burial grounds in the area provide protection from hurricanes. Some believe that the Native Americans who lived in Sarasota knew it was a safe place and chose to settle there for that reason.
BMS sees the return of their early careers programme with nine new…
BMS Group (BMS), the independent specialist insurance and reinsurance broker, today announces the commencement of the 2nd edition of their early careers apprenticeship programme in London. Founded in 2023, the programme aims to develop and nurture a pipeline of skilled account handling and enabling colleagues, essential to supporting BMS’ ambitious growth plans over the next five years.
BMS Tropical Update - 10/07/2024
Conference Season = Hurricane Season The insurance industry might need to reconsider holding so many conferences. It seems like every major event this year has coincided with a landfalling hurricane. At Rendez-Vous de Septembre (RVS), the focus was on Hurricane Francine's impact on Louisiana.
BMS Tropical Update - 10/06/2024
Time to be an alarmist There is no need to provide a tropical update that caters to the alarmist, but this might be one of those times that warrants extra attention from the insurance and reinsurance world. The current forecast for Tropical Storm Milton is the exact Gray Swan event that has been playing in the minds of the insurance industry for decades. Yesterday, mid-morning, Tropical Storm Milton was classified in the Bay of Campeche, as a hotspot for tropical cyclone genesis this season.
BMS Tropical Update - 09/27/2024
The goal of “No Surprises.” Hurricane Helene has now been downgraded to a tropical storm with sustained winds of 70mph centered about 40 miles east of Macon, GA. Movement is heading towards the North at 30mph. This is after a devastating night along the Gulf Coast when Hurricane Helene came ashore at 11:20 pm EDT near the mouth of the Aucilla River as a Category 4 hurricane with a pressure of 938 mb and sustained winds of 140 mph.
BMS Tropical Update - 09/26/2024
Holding Breath Every year, the insurance industry holds its collective breath as the dreaded “I” storm. The “I” storm is the most retired letter out of all hurricane names, but there is good news for the insurance industry this year. Tropical Storm Isaac formed in the central Atlantic late yesterday and is now the ninth named storm of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season to date. On average, the ninth named storm forms on September 16th.
BMS Tropical Update - 09/25/2024
Catastrophic Event Is Unfolding All eyes in the insurance industry are on Tropical Storm Helene, and for good reason. Helene could be upgraded to a hurricane at any moment and may strengthen into a major hurricane before making landfall in Florida's Big Bend region. Model track and intensity guidance have remained largely consistent, thanks to improved observations of Helene's current condition, which are now feeding into the weather models.
BMS Tropical Update - 09/24/2024
8 Landfalls in 7 years! In the past 24 hours, Hurricane John has undergone rapid intensification, reaching Category 3 strength just before making landfall south of Acapulco, Mexico. The storm has since shifted northwest, now battering Acapulco, a city still recovering from the devastation caused by Hurricane Otis last year.
BMS Tropical Update - 09/23/2024
Fall Is Here, but Tropical Weather Persists Yesterday at 7:43 a.m. Central Time marked the Fall Equinox, but just because the calendar says it is fall does not mean hurricane season is over. In fact, tropical activity is already stirring in the Western Caribbean. While fall usually signals the end of the Cape Verde wave season, attention now shifts to the Western Caribbean for potential tropical development, which is to be expected.
BMS Tropical Update - 09/11/2024
Four for Four Hurricane Landfalls Late yesterday afternoon, Francine was upgraded to a hurricane and is currently located 150 miles southwest of Morgan City, LA. Outer bands have impacted Louisiana since yesterday, adding to saturated soil conditions. Francine has sustained winds of around 90 mph.
BMS bolsters leadership team with new group chief broking officer
BMS Group (BMS), the independent specialist insurance and reinsurance broker, today announces the appointment of Richard Dudley as Group Chief Broking Officer. Based in London, Dudley will report to BMS Group’s CEO, Nick Cook. Dudley joins BMS with over 30 years of industry experience, including two decades in leadership roles.
BMS Tropical Update - 09/10/2024
The Main Topic This week is significant for the insurance industry, with many leaders gathering at the 66th Rendez-Vous de Septembre (RVS) in Monte Carlo. A key topic of discussion may be the current activity in the Gulf of Mexico and the unusual occurrence of having three hurricanes already this season, all of which have made landfall.
BMS Re appoints Latin American and Caribbean CEO
BMS Re, the specialty reinsurance arm of global broker BMS Group, today announces the appointment of Anthony Mirabal as CEO of the Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) Division, effective November 2024.
BMS Tropical Update - 09/09/2024
It's been historically quiet in the Atlantic Basin Although regular tropical updates have been posted on LinkedIn over the last several weeks, this is the first official BMS Tropical Update since August 13. This update highlights the overall lack of named storm activity since Hurricane Ernesto became a post-tropical cyclone on August 20.
Brad Melvin appointed president and CEO, BMS Re, US
BMS Re, the specialty reinsurance arm of global broker BMS Group, today announces the appointment of Brad Melvin as President and Chief Executive Officer, BMS Re, US, effective from November. Melvin will report to Group CEO Nick Cook. Melvin will lead BMS Re US operations with a focus on delivering strategic goals and driving growth across its MGA, regional specialty, facultative reinsurance, healthcare and capital solutions and advisory lines.
BMS strengthens global healthcare offering with appointment of Head…
BMS Group (BMS), the independent specialist insurance and reinsurance broker, today announces the appointment of Anna Painter as Head of Global Healthcare Technical Operations. Based in London, Painter will report to Rob Wendin, Managing Director of the Global Healthcare Liability Division. In this newly created role, Painter will oversee technical operations, supporting the division’s broader aim of providing best-in-class levels of service and solutions for healthcare providers.
BMS appoints new practice leader to bolster mining offering
BMS Group (BMS), the independent specialist insurance and reinsurance broker, today announces the appointment of Spencer Pearce as Mining Practice Leader. Based in London, Pearce will report to Chris Ritchie, Managing Director, International Direct & Facultative, Global Risks, and will join in November.
BMS Tropical Update - 08/13/2024
Fifth Named Storm of the Season Ernesto Ernesto became the fifth named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season yesterday, forming just ten days ahead of the climatological average for the fifth storm. This might seem surprising given the aggressive seasonal forecast predicting a hyperactive season with 23 named storms.
Assessing the impact of major cyber attacks on the global health…
Cyber attacks on the healthcare sector are becoming worryingly frequent and growing in sophistication. These attacks pose significant risks to both operational integrity and patient safety. Recent ransomware attacks, such as those on UnitedHealth Group’s Change Healthcare and a major London hospital have exposed critical vulnerabilities in existing infrastructure, while underscoring the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures and comprehensive cyber insurance cover within the sector.
BMS Tropical Update - 08/05/2024
Debby’s Florida Landfall It is always good to see how well the long-range hurricane forecast has come, as our last BMS tropical update posted on July 25th nailed the path Hurricane Debby was expected to take across the Atlantic Ocean and up the west coast of Florida. Unfortunately, however, over the weekend, Debby slowly developed and is now the second U.S. landfalling hurricane on the U.S. coastline, making it two for two in hurricane formation and U.S. landfalls.
Show More
loading
Actions
Is this you?
As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.Get in touch with Victoria
Contact Victoria, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack