Aviva Enters U.S. Surplus Lines Market with New Operation
Aviva, the largest insurer in the UK, is set to enter the U.S. commercial insurance sector by launching an onshore surplus lines operation in New York City. This strategic initiative reflects Aviva's commitment to expand its Global Corporate & Specialty (GCS) division, enhancing its U.S. presence, which has largely been conducted through the London market.
The new platform aims to target surplus lines for property, casualty, and specialty risks, granting Aviva direct access to business traditionally retained within the U.S. domestic market. Operations are slated to begin in the second quarter of 2026, pending regulatory approvals. This move is designed to integrate Aviva's underwriting expertise with a cutting-edge, technology-driven model, bringing the company closer to U.S.-based brokers and clients.
Mike Karmilowicz, an expert in commercial lines with over 30 years of experience, will head the new unit. His leadership will focus on establishing a modern, digitally enabled operation that delivers distinctive service and value to brokers and clients. By leveraging Karmilowicz's knowledge in specialty platform development, Aviva is poised to strengthen its onshore operations and refine its risk management strategies.
Aviva's Global Specialty Insurance Goals
According to Jason Storah, CEO of UK & Ireland General Insurance at Aviva, this initiative represents a critical step toward positioning Aviva as a leading global specialty insurer. The company plans to capitalize on its existing U.S. wholesale foundation while expanding its footprint in the surplus lines segment. By doing so, Aviva aims to capture additional risks that align with its specific risk appetite.
The U.S. surplus lines market offers global insurers like Aviva substantial opportunities for profitable growth, particularly in managing complex or hard-to-place risks. If successful, the New York operation could become a cornerstone of Aviva’s North American specialty insurance plans, complementing its robust presence in Canada and its well-established operations in the London market.
Despite exiting much of its U.S. retail insurance business in 2013, Aviva remains active in the market through its specialty and London market operations. Globally, Aviva serves approximately 25.2 million customers in key markets, including the UK, Ireland, and Canada. Aviva Canada stands as one of the nation's leading property and casualty insurers, offering a broad array of products through an extensive broker network, backed by investments in digital capabilities and climate resilience efforts.