Rokstone launches direct-to-retail E&S commercial risks division

Rokstone, an international specialty re/insurance managing general agent (MGA) and part of the Aventum Group, has launched Rokstone Commercial Risks, a direct-to-retail Excess & Surplus Lines (E&S) MGA in the US.

John Larkins will lead this division as President. He brings over 25 years of industry experience, having previously worked at Hudson Insurance Group as Senior Vice President and Head of General Liability. He has also served as Chief Underwriting Officer at Berkley Aspire, and Assistant Secretary and Senior Underwriting Manager – Excess and Surplus Lines at Cincinnati Specialty Underwriters.

Rokstone Commercial Risks will focus on broad casualty E&S underwriting, addressing the rising demand for coverage in an E&S market that exceeded $95 billion in premiums in 2024, growing 11% year-on-year, and serving more complex, harder-to-place risks.

Capacity will be provided by A-rated Lloyd’s syndicates on a multi-year non-admitted basis, offering direct access to E&S products for small to middle-market commercial risks, including general liability, liquor liability, excess liability, and property coverages.

Rokstone aims to revolutionise this segment with innovative technology, underwriting expertise, and advanced data analytics, providing brokers with fast, efficient quote-and-bind capabilities.

Ian Anson, Global CEO of Rokstone, commented, “This is a game changer for US retail brokers with E&S risks. Brokers will quote and bind business directly from their desktops and retail brokers can now service all their clients’ E&S needs under one roof. It’s a streamlined process that reduces time and friction in placing risks, making it faster and more profitable for brokers – offering them significantly higher commission levels than those traditionally offered in the wholesale model.”

Rokstone Commercial Risks is one of only three E&S market players focused on retail-exclusive distribution. The firm differentiates itself with a tech-driven, flexible approach, enabling faster decision-making and more personalised service.

The new division expects to write over $150 million in annual premiums by its fifth year. It launches with a team of three experienced E&S underwriters: John Larkins, Pepper Sleight (Senior Vice President of Underwriting), and Scott Powell (Vice President of Underwriting).

While the platform provides seamless transactions, brokers can also consult directly with underwriters for any complex referrals.

Larkins said, “I’m so excited to be joining Rokstone – their ability to bring innovation to the E&S space is incredibly exciting. We are creating a model that allows brokers to access fast, efficient solutions for E&S risks without the traditional barriers, but not at the expense of face-to-face relationships. That is incredibly important to us. We’ll be spending time with brokers –as active dealmakers with direct underwriting authority to efficiently and effectively handle all of their E&S needs. With a focus on technology, expertise, and relationships, we aim to change the way this market works for brokers and clients alike.”

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