QBE: Leadership Move Underscores Growth Ambitions
Global insurer QBE has appointed an Asia head of marine underwriting, effective 1 December 2025. It highlights the firm’s focus on reinforcing its marine underwriting capabilities in a region central to global trade.
In his new role, Sebastian Tjornelund will shape and implement QBE Asia’s marine underwriting strategy, including its facultative reinsurance business, according to a media release issued on Wednesday.
He will oversee performance, guide underwriting teams, and take responsibility for complex coverage solutions for clients – with reporting lines to the CEO of Wholesale Markets Asia and the global Head of Marine.
Sector Expertise
With over 13 years of industry leadership, Tjornelund brings experience from senior roles at two International Group P&I clubs. Since joining QBE in September 2023, he has served as Head of P&I Underwriting for Asia and, more recently, as Interim Head of Marine for the region.
His track record includes managing the performance of the Asia P&I portfolio and strengthening client relationships across hull, cargo, and protection and indemnity lines.
Important Market
QBE Asia is part of the International Division of QBE Insurance Group, one of the major global insurers listed on the Australia Securities Exchange.
The company continues to invest in leadership and capabilities in Asia, which remains a critical region for international shipping, supply chain resilience, and insurance innovation.
Endorsement From Regional Leadership
Ronak Shah, CEO of Wholesale Markets Asia, praised the appointment, noting Tjornelund’s «exceptional underwriting skills and leadership prowess» during a period of significant challenges for marine insurance.
He emphasised that the move reflects Tjornelund’s positive impact on colleagues, clients, and QBE’s growth trajectory in Asia.
