Lockton’s Market Leading Global Technology and Privacy Risks Practice confirms new Hires

London, 22nd June 2011 – Lockton has grown its Global Technology and Privacy Practice Risks Practice with two important East and West Coast US hires:  Laurie Schwarz and Jennifer G. Smith.

Laurie Schwarz, CIPP, will be based in San Francisco as Senior Vice President. Schwarz will provide her Technology Errors and Omissions, Miscellaneous Professional Liability and Network Security/Privacy Liability experience and expertise to clients. She comes to Lockton with over 26 years of experience and was most recently responsible for the Western Region for CNA’s Professional Risks Department.

Jennifer G. Smith, Esq, already a Lockton Producer, will transition roles and lend her expertise to the East Coast group within the Global Technology and Privacy Practice Risks Practice.  Jennifer combines 16 years experience as an insurance coverage litigator, broker, producer, and complex claims advocate.  Jennifer’s unique diversity of experience will offer Lockton clients expert insight into the identification and resolution of Professional Liability, Intellectual Property, and Information Privacy and Security-related risks.  Industry emphasis will include e-commerce, online advertising and education, satellite and telecommunications, software service or application providers, and social media.

Ben Beeson, Partner, Lockton Global Technology and Privacy Risks Practice, said: “Security and Privacy risks to businesses have never been greater, whether through the handling of customer or employee personal data or the rise of social media. At Lockton we continue to invest in the resources needed to service our clients and prospects and I am delighted that both Laurie and Jennifer have agreed to be part of the team as we look to build out a truly global practice.”

Bobby Turnage, General Counsel at Network Solutions said: “The Global Technology & Privacy Practice team at Lockton serves as our trusted advisor in a number of capacities.  We rely on the Lockton team for their expertise and diligent work in helping us acquire the right insurance for our business and manage our risks on an ongoing basis, as well as in helping us work through any claims that arise.  Jennifer Smith and her team are customer focused and results oriented.  We are very pleased with the work the Lockton team has done for us.”