Why AXA's Head of Energy Transition Appointment Makes Sense
It's well documented that climate change has brought about the existence of many new professions. Necessity is the mother of invention and mitigating climate change is the single biggest necessity of our time.
More than ever before, sustainability is a vocation. You'll often see people with titles such as CSRD Compliance Officers, Net Zero Consultants or Sustainability Coordinators: jobs that would have been the cause of some confusion 25 years ago.
Jobs like this are now essential parts of the corporate ecosystem because achieving sustainability requires dedicated teams of experts.
AXA, one of the world's largest insurance companies, is no different. The French firm's AXA XL division has appointed its first Head of Energy Transition for the Americas.
Meet Katherin Gerber
With years of experience and a focus on innovative strategy, Katherine Gerber is the perfect fit, and this new role speaks to AXA's commitment to guiding clients through the pitfalls of the transition.
Katherine's appointment comes at a time when the energy transition — a vital component of tackling climate change — requires robust support from the insurance industry.
She will oversee underwriting strategies, direct the development of specialised products, and collaborate with brokers and clients to help mitigate risks associated with this shift while advancing their sustainability goals.
“I look forward to working closely with brokers and clients to meet their insurance needs through this global transition,” Katherine says.
Reflecting on her journey, she expressed gratitude for her time at Liberty Mutual Insurance, where she served as the Global Strategy and Performance Lead for Energy Transition Risk.
“The ethics, passion and expertise [at Liberty Mutual] are exceptional, and I am grateful for the roles and opportunities that allowed me to move our business forward.”
AXA XL’s approach to the energy transition
Katherine's new role is situated at the heart of AXA XL’s broader mission to support industries navigating the transition to renewable energy. The company’s focus is on crafting bespoke insurance and risk management solutions to address challenges posed by changing energy landscapes.
Katherine is set to report to another new appointment, Jon Tellekamp, AXA XL’s incoming Chief Underwriting Officer for Construction & Energy. Like Katherine, Jon is also making the move to AXA from Liberty Mutual Insurance.
“We are thrilled to have Katherine join our team,” says Donna Nadeau, AXA XL’s Head of Large Commercial. “Her experience in developing innovative strategies and driving operational excellence will be invaluable as we work to support our clients in navigating the complexities of the energy landscape.
"With Katherine and her team’s help, we are committed to delivering tailored solutions that not only address the unique challenges of the transition to renewable energy but also empower our clients to achieve their sustainability goals.”
Donna emphasises one of Katherine's main responsibilities in her new role: supporting clients with bespoke solutions.
This speaks to the unique role insurers have in the transition, especially the need to be receptive to nuances and differences between clients. By aligning their offerings with the evolving needs of energy companies, it seems as though AXA XL is positioning itself as a key enabler of positive environmental change.
Experience and expertise meet an evolving industry
Katherine's extensive background in strategy and underwriting at Liberty Mutual equips her to address the intricate demands of energy transition projects. Her leadership is expected to integrate AXA XL’s global reach with deep industry expertise, enabling clients to manage emerging risks effectively.
AXA XL’s appointment of Katherine also signifies the increasing prominence of the energy transition in the insurance sector. The global drive to meet net zero targets, combined with the rapid adoption of renewable energy technologies, has created new risks that demand equally innovative insurance solutions.
“AXA XL is making huge strides in supporting energy clients as they drive or experience this transition,” Katherine says. “To my new colleagues at AXA XL, brokers, and clients, I look forward to meeting you and building this business together!”
Bridging sustainability and risk management
As industries embrace energy transition, the insurance sector faces a dual challenge: balancing financial prudence with sustainability imperatives. AXA XL’s initiatives under Katherine's leadership aim to address this by blending risk mitigation with products that enable investment in cleaner technologies.
The role of insurance companies is not limited to risk coverage; they play a proactive part in shaping behaviours and encouraging greener practices. AXA XL’s Global Market Guide for energy transition projects illustrates the company’s comprehensive approach, offering insights and solutions tailored to businesses at different stages of their sustainability journey.
With her expertise and AXA XL’s resources, Katherine is poised to lead efforts that not only help clients adapt but also thrive in an increasingly decarbonised world.
“The energy landscape is complex, but with tailored solutions and collaboration, we can empower clients to achieve their sustainability goals,” says Donna.
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