QBE North America, New York, said Thursday that its QBE Specialty division has launched a new inland marine practice staffed with former executives from Zurich Insurance Group Ltd. and XL Catlin.
Based in Chicago, the inland marine unit will provide offerings for the construction, energy, logistics, and mobile equipment industry. In the upcoming months the unit plans to offer motor truck cargo and builders risk coverage, according to the statement.
Chicago-based Richard Pye will lead the inland marine practice as senior vice president. Previously, Mr. Pye was senior vice president for inland marine at Zurich Insurance Group Ltd.
Chicago-based Joe Bielawski has been named vice president of underwriting. Previously, Mr. Bielawski was assistant vice president of the marine Central region at Zurich Insurance.
David Brooks and Bruce Pichon have been named vice presidents of underwriting. Previously, Mr. Brooks was assistant vice president, marine at Zurich Insurance and Mr. Pichon was regional inland marine manager at XL Catlin. Both executives are based in Los Angeles, according to a QBE North America statement.
“QBE Specialty remains committed to expanding our product suite, so our producers can provide a complete insurance solution for their clients,” Jeff Grange, president of specialty lines for QBE North America, said in the statement. “Our new Inland Marine practice has, in a few short months, established itself due to the quality of our underwriting team and broker relationships.”
Everest Re Group Ltd. said Tuesday that it has expanded its U.S. specialty insurance platform, Everest National Insurance Co. with the launch of an inland marine underwriting team.