Karen Smith
About Karen Smith
Karen Smith serves as the Vice President Senior Underwriter at AXA XL, where she has worked since 2021. She has extensive experience in the insurance industry, having previously held the position of Assistant Vice President, Senior Underwriter at the same company from 2015 to 2021.
Current Role at AXA XL
Karen Smith serves as Vice President Senior Underwriter at AXA XL, a division of AXA, since 2021. In this role, she is responsible for underwriting complex insurance risks and developing strategies to manage and mitigate those risks. Her position involves collaboration with various stakeholders to ensure effective risk assessment and policy formulation. She continues to work in Bermuda, contributing her extensive knowledge of the insurance industry.
Previous Experience at AXA XL
Prior to her current role, Karen Smith worked at AXA XL as Assistant Vice President, Senior Underwriter from 2015 to 2021. During her six years in this position, she focused on underwriting property and casualty insurance, as well as excess and commercial insurance. Her experience in Bermuda allowed her to develop a deep understanding of the regional insurance market and the specific needs of clients.
Education and Expertise
Karen Smith holds a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Sport and Fitness Administration/Management from the University of Ottawa, where she studied from 1991 to 1992. She also earned a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Kinesiology and Exercise Science from McMaster University, completing her studies from 1987 to 1991. Her educational background supports her expertise in Professional Liability and Risk Management within the insurance sector.
Skills in Insurance
Karen Smith possesses a range of skills relevant to the insurance industry, including expertise in Property & Casualty Insurance, Excess, and Commercial Insurance. Her strong finance background complements her knowledge in Sport and Fitness Administration/Management, allowing her to approach underwriting with a comprehensive understanding of both risk and financial implications.