ICW launches E&S unit with hire of MSIG’s Estes

By Michael Loney

June 20 - (The Insurer) - ICW Group Insurance Companies has hired MSIG's Tracey Estes as chief underwriting officer for its newly launched excess and surplus business ICW Specialty.

The new unit is being launched through ICW’s E&S insurer VerTerra Insurance.

Estes will join as chief underwriting officer of ICW Specialty following the completion of her current duties at MSIG.

The executive in May last year was announced as head of casualty products at MSIG USA, which she joined after holding roles at Arch and AIG.

Estes will spearhead the strategy, development and deployment of ICW Specialty.

Operating out of Atlanta, Georgia, ICW Group will build ICW Specialty's products and go-to-market and distribution strategies from the ground up.

Excess casualty is expected to be the first product to launch under the unit next year.

The new E&S product unit supports ICW’s strategic vision under its new president Mark Moitoso to focus on growth and the diversification of its offerings to best serve its customers and an evolving marketplace.

"ICW Group is on a journey to pursue new market opportunities, diversify our product offerings, and strengthen our brand. As we grow, we remain committed to providing the best insurance experience possible to our policyholders and agent and broker partners," said Moitoso.

"Our entry into the E&S market segment is a pivotal step in our evolution, building on our culture of underwriting and service excellence while positioning us for sustained profitable growth,” he added.

Moitoso was named ICW president in January this year. He previously served as risk practices leader at Lockton, where he spent a decade after 25 years at Liberty Mutual.