Houston-based Stewart Title recently welcomed a longtime title insurance executive to its leadership, with plans to expand its footprint.
Heather Bland was appointed Stewart’s new Senior Vice President, Chief Underwriting Counsel for Direct Operations. She will work in conjunction with the company’s legal department and direct operations to develop underwriting strategy and grow commercial capabilities.
“With more than 20 years of experience in the title insurance industry, including underwriting and claims/litigation administration, we couldn’t be more excited to have Heather join our team as we look to make real headwinds in certain commercial markets,” said Ryan Swed, head of U.S. Direct Operations. “Her experience and expertise on underwriting across the country gives her a great foundation for the role we have created and our teams across the U.S.”
Bland most recently served as Vice President, Senior National Counsel, for the National Commercial Services Chicago office of Old Republic National Title Insurance Company.
“Stewart has seen real growth over the past few years and the market has taken notice,” Bland said in her comments about joining the Texas company. “I’m thrilled about the opportunity to work with Ryan, Willie, and the entire Stewart team as we build up what is already a best-in-class underwriting offering.”
Bland received her Bachelor’s and Juris Doctorate from Northern Illinois University and is licensed to practice law in the State of Illinois. She is a member of the American Land Title Association ALTA/NSPS Land Survey Work Group and its Forms Committee.
“The title industry faces a unique opportunity as we work on developing the next generation of underwriters. Stewart is already a respected industry leader in underwriting, and adding Heather to our team only solidifies our capabilities,” said Wilhelmina Kightlinger, chief underwriting counsel for National Commercial Services (NCS), Deputy Chief Underwriting Counsel Stewart Title Family of Companies. “Together we can lead the charge on recruiting and training leading talent in Stewart underwriting as our services expand in key markets.”
