W.R. Berkley Enters California Workers' Compensation Market

W.R. Berkley says it is entering the California specialty workers' compensation market with the formation of Preferred Employers Insurance Company, a new property and casualty insurance company domiciled in San Diego. The new specialty carrier, W.R. Berkley's first operating unit based in California, will provide workers' compensation coverage for small employers in California. It is rated A+ (Excellent) by A.M. Best Company.

With the organization of Preferred Employers, Linda R. Smith, 50, was named president. Ms. Smith who has over 20 years of experience in the California workers' compensation insurance market, comes to Preferred Employers from Employers First Insurance Company where she served as president. Previously, she held senior management positions with Zenith Insurance Company and with Industrial Indemnity Insurance Company. Also named as officers of Preferred Employers were Jan A. Beaver, vice president and Pamela A. Cody, chief financial officer.