W.R. Berkley Forms Fire, Marine Underwriting Unit; Geary to Head

W. R. Berkley Corp. has lainched a new underwriting unit, Berkley Fire & Marine Underwriters. Headquartered in Chicago, Berkley Fire & Marine will focus on inland marine and related property risks regionally and nationwide, according to the company, and its products will be distributed through independent agents and brokers.

Berkley Fire & Marine will underwrite products on an admitted basis on behalf of Berkley Insurance Co. and other W. R. Berkley Corp. member insurance companies.

John Geary has been named president of Berkley Fire & Marine. Geary has 25 years of experience in the property/ casualty insurance industry. He most recently served as vice president of inland marine for another major U.S. insurance group, having previously held senior positions with other major insurers.