Santam syndicate 1918 appoints Nigel Tatlock as head of property, continues team build out

Santam Syndicate 1918 (“the Syndicate”), part of Santam Group (“Santam”), Africa’s largest non-life insurer announces the appointment of Nigel Tatlock as Head of Property. 

Nigel brings more than 40 years of industry experience to the role, including over 15 years at Liberty Specialty Markets where he most recently served as Head of Worldwide Property, and a recognised market leader providing timely solutions to brokers and clients. His previous roles include Head of London D&F property at XL Re and Senior Underwriter at Wren Syndicates (now Brit). 

This appointment is the next significant step for the Syndicate as it continues to develop its offering at Lloyd’s and continues to grow its team. Nigel will lead the development of a dynamic and market-leading property underwriting team, to build a global property book that includes US and international markets on both an open market and binder distribution basis. 

Since being granted permission to underwrite in late 2025 and launching on 1 January 2026, the Syndicate has made strong progress in assembling the underwriting team. Recent appointments in the Property division include Briyangha (Brie) Suthagaran, previously at Atrium and Ascot, and Sam Tierney, previously at Arcadian and Hiscox. Further hires are expected in the coming months as the Syndicate continues to deepen its underwriting capability. 

Simon Clapham, Chief Underwriting Officer (CUO) and Active Underwriter of the Syndicate, commented: “The reception to the launch of Santam Syndicate 1918 has been truly fantastic and welcoming. This is also true in our recruitment efforts. The arrival of Nigel, who is widely respected for his depth of experience and insights, will be a great boost as we continue to establish a strong and credible presence in the London market, driving sustainable growth for all our stakeholders.” 

Nigel Tatlock added: “It is an exciting time to be joining Santam Syndicate 1918. I’m looking forward to delivering momentum to the Syndicate’s strategic vision, collaborating closely with our international broker partners and clients to build a high quality, globally relevant Property portfolio, supported by a talented underwriting team.”