Allied World Assurance Company Holdings Ltd. is set to expand into Asia with the opening of a branch office in Hong Kong, bringing in no fewer than four former American International Group (AIG) executives in the process.

Bill Cotter, senior vice-president, Asia, at Allied World, will oversee all Asian insurance operations and be based out of the Hong Kong office.

Initial offerings will include a variety of primary and excess professional lines and general casualty products, as well as a range of accident and health products.

Scott Carmilani, Allied World's president and CEO, said: "Allied World is expanding to Asia because we see great potential in the region and in our ability to address growing risks for clients."

Mr. Cotter worked for AIG and its affiliates for more than 15 years, most recently as chief operating officer of AIG small business.

He will be joined by Benjamin Howell, vice-president of professional lines, Echo Chen, vice-president of general casualty, and Peter Ford, vice-president of claims and business development, who all worked for AIG as well.