Cyber insurance provider Cowbell has announced significant enhancements to its underwriting capabilities by appointing new team members in the UK and US.
Claud Bilbao, an experienced underwriter with extensive experience in the cyber and technology insurance sector, has joined Cowbell as UK Underwriting Director.
Bilbao, who will report directly to Simon Hughes, General Manager for UK operations, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the company.
Previously serving as Senior Underwriter at CNA, he was responsible for managing the London Specialty Cyber and Technology portfolios across their Company and Lloyd’s platforms.
Bilbao played a key role in the successful development and implementation of CNA’s strategy in London. Prior to that, he served as US technology and cyber underwriter at CFC Underwriting, focusing on technology startups and SMEs on the US West Coast and Silicon Valley.
“I have witnessed first-hand the important role cyber insurance plays for SMEs and large enterprises in the world. I am excited to use my international experience to support the growing Cowbell team in the UK,” said Bilbao.
Matt Byrne, another experienced underwriter, joins Cowbell as Vice President of Tech E&O Underwriting.
With over eight years of underwriting experience in Cyber and Professional Lines, Byrne works with traditional carriers and MGAs, providing support to SMEs with risks ranging from small to multi-billion- dollar income.
In addition to his expertise in professional lines, Byrne also works in traditional Property & Casualty (P&C) lines, contributing to larger programs. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, he will focus on developing retail and wholesale relationships throughout the US.
“I am delighted to contribute to the company’s ongoing transformation efforts and deliver value to SMEs. I share Cowbell’s vision of bridging the insurability gap for SMEs and I look forward to using my skills to drive Cowbell’s mission forward,” Byrne said.
These key hires coincide with Cowbell’s continued company growth, which includes the recent appointment of Andrea Collins as the company’s first Chief Marketing Officer. Cowbell also opened a new technology center in Pune, India, further expanding its global footprint. In addition, Simon Hughes has been appointed as General Manager to lead Cowbell’s UK operations.
Trent Cooksley, Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer of Cowbell, affirmed the company’s dedication to reducing the insurability gap and making cyber insurance more accessible to SMEs around the world.
“With their extensive underwriting experience in the cyber and technology insurance sector, Claud and Matt will play a key role in helping us achieve this goal. They are valuable additions to our growing UK and US team,” Cooksley said.
