Canopius is ranked among the top 10 insurers at Lloyd's and writes premium income in excess of $1.6 billion. According to Watson, the Centerbridge deal provides a "golden opportunity." "This provides us with a golden opportunity to create a world class specialty (re)insurance franchise through harnessing the extraordinary talents of our staff and the acumen and financial resources of new owners Centerbridge," he said. "We are grateful to Sompo for their support for our business over the past three years and recognise their generosity in allowing us to chart this new course. Our close business and personal connections with Sompo have existed for many years and we hope to maintain a strong business relationship with them in future. Related stories: Former Sompo Canopius CEO makes leap to new firm Sompo Canopius reinsurance unit hit with rating review