AXA XL has announced the appointment of Debbie Durkan as head of private equity and business development for the UK and Lloyd’s, effective from 1 October.
In her new role, Durkan will be responsible for building the firm’s private equity practice in London, while leading business development across key growth initiatives.
She joined AXA XL in January 2025 to lead distribution for global energy transition and connected risks, having previously worked at insurance brokers including Marsh, Gallagher and JLT, where she led the UK post-acquisition and portfolio management practice. She also served on the Bowring Marsh global team leading business development.
The appointment follows the recent naming of Rana Gillmon as head of private equity client relations for the Americas.
Elie Hanna, chief distribution for the UK and Lloyd’s at AXA XL, said: “Private equity markets have grown and continue to do so, with assets under management projected to reach more than $18tn (£13.6tn) by 2027, up from $15tn (£11.3tn) in 2024. With Debbie’s appointment we have a real opportunity to support and advance the risk management needs of more private equity clients.
“Debbie is a well-known and respected figure in the market. She understands their businesses and can illustrate how our solutions can help them prosper, while reinforcing our position as a trusted, long-term partner.”
