Roundup: The Hartford’s new hire; Italy’s first try-before-you-buy-program

The Hartford appointed Claire Burns as its new chief marketing and communications officer. Burns will take over the role on Sept. 1. She succeeds Kathleen Bromage, who is the current chief marketing and communication officer and also the head of Hartford Next, a transformation initiative. Bromage will remain in an advisory role and continue to oversee Hartford Next through the end of the year. “Claire’s outstanding industry experience and proven track record of achieving results position her well to lead marketing and communications for our iconic brand in an increasingly digital marketplace,” said Christopher Swift, chairman and CEO, in a press release. “She is a strategic, visionary leader who is well-aligned with The Hartford’s culture and values, and her customer-focused mindset will serve The Hartford well as we continue to elevate our brand and reputation to drive business outcomes.”

Insurtech Hippo announced the launch of Inspection Protection, a protection plan for repairs of qualifying structural systems to issues that were missed by a home inspector. Inspection Protection can cover up to $100,000 in repairs for $350 dollars in most homes and can be purchased by anyone in the transaction process, including the buyer, seller or real estate agents. “Inspection Protection brings a much-needed innovation to the home buying process by protecting the new homeowner while also supporting home sellers," said Daniel Blanaru, Hippo’s chief growth officer, in a press release. "Developed based on insights from our own customer base, it's the first-ever product to offer this kind of protection to consumers around home inspections. We envision a world where every listing comes with Inspection Protection as it instills confidence into the transaction and creates a better experience for everyone involved." Hippo also recently completed its business combination with Reinvent Technology Partners and went public on Aug. 3.

Great American Insurance Group’s Accident & Health Division launched Pomi, a platform for brokers and agents to click, quote and bind the majority of their Accident and Health policies. Brokers will have constant access and quick turnaround with Pomi’s “click and bind” method for camps, daycares, K-12 schools and youth sports coverage. “The youth sports A&H integration into the portal is part of our ongoing push for continuous improvement,” said Divisional President Jim Slate. “Our goal is to help brokers by providing a fast, modern and convenient solution. Now, even last-minute requests for coverage can be handled quickly without waiting for an underwriter. So, when a coach needs coverage for a tournament the very next day, our appointed brokers can fulfill the request in under three minutes. It’s never been easier.”