ArgoGlobal expands marine offering; hires two underwriters

ArgoGlobal, a Lloyd’s insurer and member of Argo Group, has appointed David Ong as senior underwriter of marine hull and energy for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), and Lee Zi Yih as marine underwriter for Asia, as part of the expansion of its marine offering.

Ong will report to Lina Hantas, chief underwriting officer, MENA, and Zi Yih will report to David Lim, head of marine at ArgoGlobal Asia, effective immediately.

Ong has eight years of experience in marine, having most recently served as assistant manager (marine hull), MENA, at RSA.

As assistant manager he was responsible for the growth of the marine hull portfolio, while maintaining a sub 50 percent loss ratio.

While at RSA, Ong has also served as marine hull deputy underwriter and senior marine claims executive.

He began his career in 2008 as a marine loss adjuster/surveyor for Insight Adjusters and Surveyors in Singapore.

Zi Yih previously served as marine hull underwriter at Allied World Assurance Company, where she underwrote a suit of marine products including marine hull, builders risks and pleasure craft business, as well as a rating tool.

She began her career at the marine broking department of Aon Singapore in 2009 as assistant manager.

Lina Hantas said: “David has a proven track record and has built an impressive reputation in the marine market in the Middle East and North Africa, based on expert underwriting and an in-depth understanding of insureds’ requirements.

“Marine represents a key growth area for our operations in MENA and David’s appointment represents a significant step forward in realising our ambitions. I am very pleased to welcome him to the team.”

Lim added: “Lee has the drive and service focus to complement our existing expertise which will continue to build out our Marine offering in Singapore. I am certain she will have an immediate and positive impact. I am very pleased to welcome her to the team.”