SIGNAL IDUNA Reinsurance Ltd (SI Re), a Swiss reinsurer based in Zug, has appointed Simone Debono (pictured above) as underwriting manager for Italy and Northern Europe.
Debono will focus on developing SI Re’s business in these markets and expanding the company’s presence in additional territories. She reports to Dr. Robert Salzmann, chief underwriting officer.
Debono joined SI Re on Aug. 4, and will be responsible for the Nordic and Italian markets. She will gradually assume these responsibilities from Thomas Bodenschatz, who oversees Northern Europe, and Nicolas Schmidhauser, who manages Italy.
Both Bodenschatz and Schmidhauser will continue to support clients during the transition to maintain SI Re’s service standards. After the transition, Bodenschatz will concentrate on serving cedents and expanding SI Re’s portfolio in Germany and Austria.
Debono moves to SI Re from Helvetia Re, where she spent more than a decade as senior underwriter. At Helvetia Re, she managed a portfolio covering the Nordic countries, Malta, Cyprus, and Greece. Her previous experience includes roles at Allianz Re and Converium Reinsurance in Zurich, as well as at Skuld P&I Club in Oslo.
Debono began her reinsurance career in 2003, following experience in operational finance and accounting in Malta. She holds the Associate in Reinsurance (ARe) designation and has completed advanced professional courses in liability insurance and contract pricing.
“Simone Debono brings an exceptional combination of technical expertise, market insight, and client focus," Salzmann said. "Her international track record across various European markets makes her a great asset for SI Re and our clients.”
SI Re reported a 10% increase in premium volume following the January 2025 renewals, reaching €225 million, up from €205 million in 2024. The company’s growth was supported by new business accounting for 20% of the renewed volume and a 9% increase in new clients.
SI Re’s leadership team also saw changes earlier this year, with Dr. Arnold Löw succeeding Bertrand Wollner as CEO on May 1. Löw brings more than 20 years of reinsurance experience, including leadership roles at Swiss Re and expertise in market strategy, risk management, and digital transformation.
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