Aspen hires XL Catlin execs; opens property branch

Bermuda-based re/insurer Aspen has opened a property branch in its Chicago office following the appointment of two XL Catlin executives.

Laurie Schoch joins as senior vice president, Chicago property underwriting manager. She most recently served as vice president and regional property manager at XL Catlin. She has held previous roles at Great American, Arthur J Gallagher, Aon Specialty Re and Transatlantic Re.

In addition, Judy Bianco joins as senior property underwriter and will report to Schoch. She most recently served as property underwriter. Prior to this, she served at Aon.

Both of them will report to Cliff Hope, executive vice president, property, US insurance.

Launching this month, the new operation will serve brokers and insureds throughout the mid-west region, including Texas.