Tokio Marine Kiln (TMK), the leading specialist international insurer, today announces the appointment of Kirsten Shastri as Head of Life Sciences as it targets growth in the sector.

Reporting to Departmental Head of Liability Chris Jones, Shastri will underwrite a range of Life Sciences risks including traditional medical device and pharmaceutical companies through to novel products being developed worldwide.

Coverage will also be available for products liability; professional indemnity; medical malpractice; public liability and clinical trials, alongside some nuanced covers currently offered by TMK. Further product developments are planned from 2023, with distribution focused through TMK’s extensive international coverholder network in addition to traditional open market placements.

The new appointment follows the continued growth of TMK’s Liability division, which focuses on risks domiciled worldwide (excluding the US), as it expands and broadens its portfolio.

Shastri brings more than ten years’ experience in insurance and a background in science to the role.

Shastri said: “I’m very excited and proud to be joining TMK - one of the largest international liability insurers in Lloyd’s - and to be bringing a specialised product to the market that responds to the innovation seen in the Life Sciences industry. I look forward to growing a specialist underwriting team and bringing a fresh approach to cover in this field.”

Jones said: “We’re delighted to welcome Kirsten to expand our Liability offering with this new Life Sciences specialism. Kirsten’s proven track record of providing specialist cover for emerging and growing areas of risk and her experience in technology-enabled healthcare are ideally aligned with our focus on innovation, and we’re looking forward to doing great things together.”