Insurtech start-up Hippo has announced the appointment of fintech veterans to key leadership positions as the company prepares for the commercial launch of its home insurance product in California this year.

The company has already secured regulatory approval from the California Department of Insurance to provide its offerings in the state and is “currently in the middle of a closed beta program,” according to a company statement.

The new additions are Rick McCathron, who moves from being former president and chief executive of First Contact Insurance to head of insurance at Hippo; Rick Folgman who will head operations from his former posting as chief strategy officer at Ethos Lending; and Mike Gulla, who was appointed director of underwriting from a similar posting at Esurance’s home insurance business.

Want the latest insurance industry news first? Sign up for our completely free newsletter service now.

“We are delighted that talent of this caliber is joining Hippo to help us shake up the home insurance market that hasn’t changed in decades,” Assaf Wand, Hippo chief executive, said in a statement.

“As we prepare for our commercial launch, Rick, Mike and Rick bring a wealth of experience to ensure Hippo delivers on its mission to disrupt the home insurance market and offer the most transparent, affordable and relevant insurance policies online.”

Hippo raised $14 million in Series A funding last December.


Related stories:
Hippo secures $14m to fund 2017 launch
Insurers adopting smart home policies: study