Axa XL hires from CNA in mid-market push

John Liantonio

Axa XL said Wednesday it has hired John Liantonio, a private-equity insurance specialist, from CNA Financial Corp. as part of its strategy to target middle-market risks.

New York-based Mr. Liantonio will be head of mid-market private equity at the Axa SA unit, offering property/casualty coverage to mid-sized portfolio companies managed by private equity firms, an Axa XL statement said. Previously, he was an assistant vice president at CNA.

He will report to Matt Waters, head of U.S. mid-market for Axa XL.

The appointment comes ahead of a planned July launch of an Axa XL mid-market team that will offer workers compensation, commercial auto, general liability, property and umbrella coverage, the statement said.

“We’re taking a targeted approach in launching our mid-market capabilities. By focusing on a specific market segment, we can thoughtfully ramp up our underwriting capabilities and operations,” Mr. Waters said in the statement.