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Precision through Perspective

The Best for a Reason

First Specialty was founded on the vision of defining excellence in the field of excess casualty coverage. Our mission is to deliver unmatched expertise and service in the insurance market, ensuring our clients are not just insured, but truly protected.

Leadership

Patrick Kenahan

Chief Executive Officer

patrick@firstspecialty.com

+1 (441) 734-4433

Patrick has 28 years of underwriting experience, including Excess Casualty leadership positions at Zurich North America, as Vice President at AIG’s Starr Excess, Senior Vice President at Allied World, and, most recently, as Head of Excess Casualty at the Ascot Group.

His approach has successfully built and managed platforms in Bermuda, New York and London, becoming market leaders across dozens of segments in the arena of Fortune 1000 casualty; each time demonstrating integrated interoffice collaboration, loyalty to agents, which is returned in kind, and becoming a lodestone for the most talented insurance professionals in each location.

Brandon Vanderbeck

President

brandon@firstspecialty.com

+1 (201) 566-4028

Brandon Vanderbeck joined First Specialty in March 2024 as President. Brandon has spent over 17 years in the Insurance Industry at both brokerage firms and underwriting companies. With experience operating in markets including the U.S., London, and Bermuda, Brandon has specialized in industry sectors, including Construction, Industrial, Consumer Products, Real Estate, and Hospitality. Prior to joining First Specialty, he was responsible for building the U.S. Excess Casualty team at Ascot Group. 

Brandon began his career at Marsh in the Global Risk Management and Excess Casualty teams before moving to Wells Fargo Insurance Services as an Account Executive. He then joined Allied World in New York, relocating to launch new regions in Philadelphia and London.   

Brandon attended Villanova University and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice.

Andrew Dicob

MBA, AIDA, ARM

Chief Operating Officer

adicob@firstspecialty.com

+1 (347) 843-2966

With over 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, Andrew Dicob is a seasoned professional. He holds an MBA from Syracuse University and has designations in AIDA and ARM. Andrew's career is marked by a strong focus on underwriting and analytics excellence, showcasing his deep technical skills and making him a trusted and reliable asset in any insurance-focused organization.

Andrew is a key team member at First Specialty, collaborating closely with leadership to enhance operational efficiency and drive strategic growth. He specializes in improving workflow efficiency, tracking key performance indicators, ensuring data accuracy, and collaborating with cross-functional teams on product development initiatives. In addition, Andrew actively contributes to marketing efforts by providing valuable insights and support in developing and implementing effective marketing strategies. His expertise is in reaching and engaging our target audience, driving brand awareness, and ultimately contributing to the company's overall success.

Andrew honed his skills in managing accounts and providing comprehensive service to a diverse client base in his previous role. His commitment to delivering value is reflected in his dedication to continuous improvement, effective collaboration, and an exceptional ability to lead in dynamic environments. His leadership extends beyond his professional career into his personal life, where he serves as a Scouts BSA merit badge counselor, actively and passionately contributing to youth development.

A Strong Foundation and Proven Track Record

Our team is the cornerstone of our success, comprising senior underwriters who bring together a wealth of combined experience. This vast knowledge, steeped in their respective markets, is not just about the years spent in the industry but also the collaborative dynamic created by spending years working closely as a unified team.

What truly sets us apart is our client-focused approach. By prioritizing in-person meetings, we foster relationships that stand the test of time, a commitment reflected in our strong renewal retention rates.

This dedication seamlessly extends to our comprehensive risk management and claims adjusting processes. Our underwriters and claims professionals work closely together, sharing their deep understanding of various industries and the companies within them. This collaborative spirit is crucial, especially considering the severe nature of the risks our clients face. By cooperating, we ensure our expertise is not just theoretical but is applied effectively, offering our clients the best possible solutions.

Meet the underwriters behind your coverage

Contact

First Specialty Excess 1120 6th Ave, 21st floor New York, NY 10036
First Specialty Excess Windsor Place 4th floor Hamilton HM 11, Bermuda
info@firstspecialty.com

California License Number 0D78336


© 2024 First Specialty Excess Limited. All rights reserved. Insurance coverages offered through MS Transverse Insurance Company (Admitted) & MS Transverse Specialty Insurance Company (Non-admitted), rated A (Excellent) by AM Best, Financial Size Category VIII.