BHSI unveils German office

Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company has opened a new office in Düsseldorf, Germany, as it seeks to build its global footprint.

In coordination with its affiliate Berkshire Hathaway International Insurance, the insurer has also made a number of key appointments for Northern Europe in the office.

Jörg Bechert has been appointed as senior vice president (SVP), head of executive and professional lines, Northern Europe. He most recently served as head of strategy and innovation at Aon Germany.

BHSI has appointed Ulrich Kütter as SVP, head of marine, Northern Europe. He joins from Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty where he most recently served as head of marine, Central and Eastern Europe.

Leander Metzger joins as SVP, head of property, Northern Europe from FM Insurance Company’s Central European operation where he served as director, AFM.

Robert Scherf joins as vice president, head of human resources, Northern Europe. He was most recently head of human resources at Catlin Europe.

Additionally, BHSI has named Ute Huhmann as executive assistant, Northern Europe.

“We are laying the foundation to provide customers throughout Europe with a full line of specialty insurance solutions, backed by BHSI’s industry-leading financial strength and underwriting and claims expertise,” said Gregor Koehler, President, Northern Europe, BHSI. “This is the beginning of our exciting journey to provide long term solutions for customers throughout the region.”

“This latest strategic expansion reflects BHSI’s commitment to growing both our global footprint and our worldwide capabilities,” said Peter Eastwood, President and CEO, BHSI. “We look forward to delivering sound insurance solutions for companies throughout the UK and Europe, while continuing to deepen our global team of individuals with standout capabilities and character.”