Ascot Group introduces Vertical Underwriting Managers

Company names chief executive officer and SVP for new entity

Ascot Group introduces Vertical Underwriting Managers

Insurance News

By Terry Gangcuangco

Ascot Group Limited has launched its first specialty managing general agency (MGA) cell under Ethos Specialty Insurance Services.

Called Vertical Underwriting Managers, the new entity will underwrite standard and specialty P&C (property and casualty) business. It will also target underserved market segments.  

With the launch of Vertical, Ascot has announced the following appointments:
  • Joe Calise - chief executive officer
  • Adam Schell - chief casualty officer
  • John Casella - senior vice president

“I am excited to be joining Vertical to build out one of the preeminent underwriting platforms in the industry,” said Calise, who worked at Guy Carpenter as managing director in charge of the nationwide programmes practice.

Schnell, meanwhile, served as WKFC Underwriting Managers’ executive vice president and head of casualty. Casella, a 35-year Chubb veteran, was chief underwriting officer of Chubb Custom Insurance Company.

Chief executive Calise commented: “Adam and John are both exceptional talents with a tremendous grasp of the programme segment, and we’re thrilled to have them as part of the organisation.”

For Ascot CEO Andrew Brooks, the three new hires’ broad knowledge base and wealth of relationships within the industry are “the perfect catalyst” to make Vertical a leading MGA.

Vertical’s core lines of business include property, casualty, specialty lines, professional liability, and insurance technology.


Related stories:
Ascot Group creates Ethos Specialty Insurance

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