Axa XL promotes for new head of PE and business development for UK and Lloyd’s

Axa XL has promoted Debbie Durkan as head of private equity and business development for its UK and Lloyd’s operations, as the insurer looks to expand its presence in the growing private equity sector.

Durkan will take up the newly created position on 1 October 2026 and will be responsible for developing Axa XL’s private equity proposition, strengthening its market profile and supporting growth across the business.

Based in London, she will focus on building the insurer’s private equity practice and promoting its capabilities to clients, brokers and investors, alongside leading a number of strategic business development initiatives.

Axa XL said the appointment reflects the increasing importance of private equity as an area of growth for the insurance sector, with global assets under management continuing to rise.

Market expertise

Durkan has extensive experience across insurance broking and business development, having spent most of her career with major brokers.

Her career has included roles at Marsh, Gallagher and JLT, before returning to Marsh following its acquisition of JLT in 2019.

She joined Axa XL in January 2025, where she has been leading distribution activity for global energy transition and connected risks.

Elie Hanna, chief distribution officer for UK and Lloyd’s at Axa XL, said: ”With Durkan’s appointment, we have a real opportunity to support and advance the risk management needs of more private equity clients.

“Durkan is a well-known and respected figure in the market and has worked with many Private equity clients throughout her career, she understands their businesses and can illustrate how our solutions can help them prosper, while reinforcing our position as a trusted, long-term partner.

“She also has extensive sales and business development experience and is well positioned to work with our teams to support these initiatives.”