Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance (BHSI) has entered the programs market in Canada, naming David Tran as head of Programs to lead the insurer’s new national strategy in the segment. 

The move expands BHSI’s footprint in the Canadian insurance market, where the company has steadily grown its presence through additions to its team, regional coverage, and product offerings across specialty and commercial lines.  

The launch of a dedicated programs platform marks a strategic shift to broaden distribution through partnerships with program administrators, managing general agents (MGAs), and broker networks. BHSI did not disclose specific program lines or target sectors but indicated that more details would follow as the platform is developed. 

“Our move into the programs space is a natural evolution of our strategy to ‘go wide and go deep,’” said Andrew Knight, country manager, Canada, at BHSI. “We’re broadening our specialty underwriting capabilities and bringing the security of our strong balance sheet to new segments and distribution partners.” 

Tran, who most recently served as vice president of National Strategic Relationships at another Canadian insurer, brings more than 20 years of experience in underwriting and strategic relationship management.  

In his new role, he will be responsible for designing and implementing BHSI’s national programs strategy, developing bespoke insurance solutions for niche markets, and establishing relationships with distribution partners across Canada. 

The programs market has gained momentum in recent years as insurers look to access niche or underserved segments through delegated authority arrangements. For MGAs and brokers, insurer-backed programs can provide access to stable capacity and streamlined products tailored to specific industries or client groups. 

The company said it has continued to build its Canadian presence since its entry in 2015, with active participation in casualty, property, executive and professional lines, construction, and marine insurance.