AXA XL has launched a dedicated alternative risk solutions (ARS) team in the Americas, appointing Sylvain Bouteillé to lead the new unit. Bouteillé, who currently serves as chief underwriting officer (CUO) for specialty in the Americas, will retain his existing responsibilities alongside his new leadership role. The ARS team is part of AXA XL’s large commercial business segment and will centralise the firm's alternative risk expertise to deliver solutions across the US, Canada and Bermuda. The new team will initially focus on captive solutions, including structured risk solutions, led by Austin Su; group captives, led by Joseph Davina; and single cell parent captives. The unit will collaborate closely with Steve Bauman, head of captive programmes on AXA XL’s client broker management team. Donna Nadeau, head of large commercial at AXA XL, comments: “This is an exciting opportunity for us to enhance our offerings in this space and continue to serve our clients with tailored, strategic solutions. As the cost of risk continues to rise, more businesses are seeking alternative risk solutions to flexibly and effectively manage their exposures.” Nadeau adds: “For our clients, this means access to more customised, cost-effective options that can help them navigate the rising costs of risk and build resilience against future uncertainties.” Bouteillé joined AXA XL in August 2025 and brings more than 30 years of industry experience to the role, with a focus on credit risk, multinational programmes and strategic leadership. Commenting on his appointment, Bouteillé says: “In today’s volatile and cost-driven environment, consolidating AXA XL’s alternative risk transfer capabilities, including customised structured solutions and support for captive arrangements, will enable us to provide more comprehensive, flexible, and innovative risk management options.” He concludes: “This focused approach will help us strengthen relationships with brokers and clients, ultimately delivering greater value and helping them better navigate complex property and casualty risks as well as emerging risks such as cyber, environmental, and climate-related exposures.”
