13 July 2026

Antares CEO van der Straaten passes away

Specialty insurer Antares’ long-serving chief executive Michael van der Straaten has died over the weekend following a short illness. He was 58 years old.

Van der Straaten had been Antares CEO since 2020, and has worked at Antares Reinsurance since 2017, initially as chief underwriting officer for long tail and speciality, before rising to become CEO of the whole business, including Antares Insurance Company Limited, their UK insurance carrier.

Prior to that, he held roles at insurers Chubb and Canopius.

A spokesperson said: “It is with great sadness that we announce that Michael van der Straaten, CEO of Antares, passed away unexpectedly this weekend following a short illness.

“Antares and QIC’s thoughts, prayers, and deepest condolences are with Mike’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. A further statement will be released in due course.”

Antares offers local and international insurance and reinsurance, via Lloyd’s and company market platforms.