Multi-category, multi-territory managing general agency (MGA) Pen Underwriting has announced the appointment of Kane Bryant as war underwriter within its specialist marine war risk insurance arm, Vessel Protect.
Bryant joins the firm from Amphitrite Underwriting, where he specialized in ship hull and war risks.
His professional background also includes spells with MS Amlin and Travelers, where he underwrote a wider maritime portfolio including sea cargo, yachts and war.
In his new role, Bryant will work with Vessel Protect’s dedicated underwriting team to deliver tailored, comprehensive solutions for individual vessels and large international fleets.
His deep expertise will enhance the company’s capabilities during a period of intense market volatility and growing demand.
Tom Batterbury, Managing Director of Freeboard Maritime and Vessel Protect, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Kane to the Vessel Protect team as a war underwriter. His technical expertise, market insight and collaborative approach make him a great addition to the business. Kane will play an important role in strengthening our proposition and supporting customers.”
“As the maritime war risk market continues to be dominated by geopolitical volatility, highly dynamic pricing and the need for transit-by-transit risk assessment, our focus remains on providing brokers and their clients with fast inquiry turnaround, rapid risk assessment, customized underwriting and consistency of coverage. Adding Kane to the team will ensure that Vessel Protect continues to differentiate its services and products in a complex and changing environment.”
Bryant added: “What attracted me most to Vessel Protect was its position as a market leader with a mature and proven naval warfare business. The opportunity to work with an experienced team of underwriters makes it an excellent environment to contribute and add long-term value.”
Backed by Lloyd’s underwriting capabilities, Vessel Protect offers war risk coverage of up to $250 million on any one ship, as well as cargo war insurance limits of up to $100 million.
These significant restrictions are among the largest in the world, allowing high-value ships and modern fleets to obtain the necessary protection when traveling through active conflict zones.
Bryant’s appointment is part of Pen Underwriting’s ongoing investment in its fast-growing marine business, with Hayley Robbins announced last month as the new underwriter of its specialist marine trading business, Trafalgar Marine Trades.
This month, Dolores Mirmi also joined as underwriter in its international ports and terminals specialist business, which listed as BMM P&T Ltd (trading name of Pen Underwriting Limited).
