News Releases

Atrium, the leading specialty (re)insurer at Lloyd’s, today announces the appointment of Bassel Matta as incumbent head Alex Cullen departs after eleven years of service.

Bassel Matta joined Atrium in 2020 and has 30 years of experience in the Aviation market. Bassel is a recognised leader and highly respected in the London market. He is a regular feature in the Gracechurch London’s Leading Underwriter Survey, which is voted for by London Market brokers. In 2024, he was voted second in the overall Leading Underwriter category and first in the Brokers Leading Underwriter category, a testament to his stature and reputation.

David Sankey, Marine, Aviation, and Energy Business Group Leader, comments,
“I would like to thank Alex for his contribution to Atrium over the last eleven years. Alex has helped create one of the strongest Aviation teams in the market. It will come as no surprise to market practitioners that Bassel Matta will assume the role of Head of Aviation. Bassel is a highly respected leader and does a brilliant job at Atrium; I am delighted he has taken on the leadership of our market leading team.”

Peter Laidlaw, Active Underwriter, Syndicate 609, comments,
“Talent identification, development, and internal promotion have always been key priorities at Atrium, and so I am delighted that Bassel will assume the leadership of the team. Bassel has played an integral role in the continued development of our Aviation business since joining Atrium in 2020. I have great confidence in the ability of Bassel and the wider team to take our Aviation book to the next level.”

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