QBE Australia has strengthened its national marine specialty risks division with the appointment of Garry Francis to the position of business development underwriter.

Francis joins the insurer from Zurich, where he spent 25 years working for the marine business. He has a total of 35 years’ experience in marine.

General manager, marine specialty risks for QBE Australia, Neil Hiller said: “We are extremely pleased to welcome Garry to the team at QBE.

“His extensive experience in cargo insurance is a valuable addition to the specialist service we offer our clients and brokers, and we couldn’t be happier that Garry has chosen to continue his career with us.”

On commencing his role at QBE, Francis said: "I'm excited by this opportunity to join QBE and am greatly looking forward to making a valuable contribution to the experienced Marine team.”

The appointment comes as QBE launches its new e-business system, Cargo@QBE, which makes it possible to obtain cargo quotes and bind new business, as well as administer and renew existing cargo policies.

Together with an updated policy wording, Cargo@QBE provides full policy lifecycle management for annual cargo, cargo single transit and home contents and personal property in transit policies.

The system is available now for new business and will be accessible in Q4 2013 for renewals.