Benfield Opens Another China Office

Benfield insurance brokerage announced yesterday that it has received approval from the China Insurance Regulatory Commission to expand operations in that country with a Beijing office.

The company said the new office will enhance its presence in China and its ability to serve a growing customer base in the greater China region.

Benfield established its first representative office in China in Shanghai in 2003. As a result of the approval for its new Beijing Representative Office, its Shanghai Representative Office has been approved by the CIRC to be upgraded to the status of General Representative Office, the company said.

“China represents one of the world's most energizing insurance markets,” said Dominic Christian, chief executive of Benfield's International Division. He said Benfield looks forward “to serving customers new and old, and contributing to the markets future vibrancy.”

Huang Ling, previously with Benfield in Shanghai, has been appointed as chief representative for its new Beijing Representative Office.

Kevin Bogardus, chief representative for Benfield's Shanghai Representative Office since 2005 and the company's general manager for Greater China, has been appointed as General Representative for its Shanghai General Representative Office.

Mr. Christian added that the new office will work closely with Benfield's other operations to provide treaty and facultative reinsurance programs and risk advisory services in all classes of business.

The new office is at 6 Wudinghou St. in the Excel Centre, Xicheng District.