As a part of its strategy to expand its global reinsurance footprint, W R Berkley Corporation, an insurance holding company, has formed Berkley Re UK, and appointed Richard Fothergill as president of the newly created unit.

Based in London, Berkley Re UK’s principal focus will be underwriting casualty and property treaty reinsurance, subject to regulatory approval.

The operations of Berkley Re UK are expected to commence in the fourth quarter of 2011 and will complement those of Berkley Re America, Berkley Re Asia and Berkley Re Australia.

Fothergill has more than 25 years of experience in the property and casualty reinsurance industry. He previously served as head of international casualty treaty business for a major reinsurer.

Elaine Perry will be appointed senior liability underwriter of Berkley Re UK.

Perry has more than 20 years of related experience in the reinsurance and insurance industries, most recently serving as senior casualty treaty underwriter for a major reinsurer.

Both appointments will become effective as soon as Fothergill’s and Perry’s respective current employment contracts come to an end.

W R Berkley Corporation chairman of the board and CEO William Berkley said the formation of Berkley Re UK is a further step in our efforts to expand our global reinsurance footprint.

"We are particularly pleased to have such accomplished people with in-depth reinsurance experience join our organization," Berkley said.