November 3: Business briefs

AXIS Capital Holdings Limited has appointed a new chief financial officer. Albert Benchimol will join the company as on January 17.

He will also join the executive committee and report directly to John Charman, CEO and president of AXIS Capital.

Until last month, Mr. Benchimol served as executive vice president and CFO of PartnerRe Ltd. a position he held since he joined PartnerRe in 2000.

In 2007, he took on the additional role of CEO of PartnerRe Ltd.’s Capital Markets Group. His retirement from PartnerRe Ltd. will be effective from December 31, 2010.

Mr. Charman said: “I am delighted we have attracted such a highly respected and seasoned professional to the position of chief financial officer.

“At this important time in the company’s continuing strong development, Albert brings to this position extensive international finance and investments expertise, proven management skills and strategic finance and risk management acumen.“

Mr. Benchimol said: “I have long respected the progress that AXIS Capital has achieved since its inception in 2001. I am excited and energized to join John Charman, Michael Butt and the rest of the talented management team at AXIS Capital as the company continues to create value for its clients, shareholders and employees.”

Coopers revamp

The refashioned second floor of A.S. Cooper’s main store reopened yesterday — complete with new lingerie department.

In a first for the firm, they will sell intimate apparel by labels such as DKNY, Warners and Maidenform.

The remodeled floor also boasts a selection of clothes from the moderately priced Missy range, previously housed at A.S. Cooper’s Harbourfront store.

Somers Cooper, managing director, said: “This move will complete our mission to once again provide quality one-stop shopping in the heart of Hamilton for our Missy customer.