International MGA USQRisk has named Lael Chappell the chief marketing and business development officer of Desq.
Desq is a specialty accelerator platform established to empower entrepreneurial underwriters to launch and manage their own MGAs.
Chappell has a wide range of experience in underwriting, leveraging strategic partnerships and promoting change within the industry, all of which will play a key part within his new role at Desq.
In a press release, USQRisk stated that with Desq, Chappell plans to reinforce a hands-on approach to advance a broader impact on the insurance industry. By leveraging technology and tailoring it to the needs of underwriters, Chappell hopes to inspire specialty underwriters to build on their expertise and harness the opportunity to start their own MGAs.
Before joining USQRisk, Chappell served as director of insurance distribution for Attune Insurance, now Coalition Inc.
“I am excited to join Desq early in its growth. The accelerator has incredible potential to bring new ideas and approaches to MGAs,” commented Chappell.
“Insurtech is at a very interesting crossroads, and I hope, through the unique resources Desq offers to MGA’s, we can continue to expand program business into niche markets, and make a large-scale, global impact.”
Addressing Chappell’s appointment, Moreno, Group CEO of USQRisk, said: “Lael is the perfect addition to the Desq team. His comprehensive understanding of insurance, underwriting expertise, deep ties to venture capital and entrepreneurial approach to advancing insurtech will play an important role in not only Desq and USQRisk, but the industry as a whole.”