MGA Alta Signa taps ex-Liberty/Allianz for PI build out in Europe

European boutique managing general agent (MGA) Alta Signa Europe has hired a professional indemnity (PI) manager for the Netherlands as part of the business’s wider focus on targeted and profitable growth within specialty markets across Europe.

Based in Rotterdam, Jeroen Kisters will be responsible for developing Alta Signa’s professional indemnity (PI) product offering in the Dutch market.

Kisters has more than 30 years’ experience as an insurance consultant, wholesale broker, legal risk management consultant and underwriter in respect of commercial lines, general liability, employer’s liability, product liability, professional indemnity (facultative reinsurance) and directors & officers liability.

Kisters has previously held senior underwriting roles at Liberty Specialty Markets, Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty and AXA.

Dennis Gattenger, head of distribution at Alta Signa, said: “As an established MGA dedicated to the European Specialty Insurance market, we are focusing on specialty insurance where global expertise and local underwriting experience is critical, and where policyholders buy your capacity because they feel comfortable that you completely understand their risk exposures.

“Professional Indemnity is one such market where we are looking to grow selectively across Europe on a country-by-country basis with a local boots-on-the-ground presence. Jeroen’s knowledge of the Dutch PI market is second to none and will add extensive value to our clients as we bring specialised solutions to help them manage their evolving risks.”

Mark Haverkate, Alta Signa branch manager for Benelux, added: “We are pleased to have Jeroen join the Benelux team. With his expertise and knowledge on Dutch PI we will elevate the Benelux operation to the next level. Jeroen brings a wealth of complementary underwriting, broking and consulting experience and I know that our clients and business partners will benefit enormously from his extensive expertise and sector insights.”

Kisters commented: “I am very excited to have joined Alta Signa at such an important time in its development. The company has a forward-thinking and entrepreneurial approach and the big driver for me is that I will be able to build a book of PI business implementing my own clear underwriting strategy without being held back by outdated systems or market habits which inhibit the potential for growth.”

Kisters believes that “contrary to what some in the market are saying, PI markets in Europe are soft with ample opportunities and lots of capacity.”

“You have to stand out and have your USPs in order. Differentiation and relevance are key and if you have a good strategy, a compelling value proposition and a strong local network to allow you to underwrite profitably, the prospects are favourable,” he added.

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