Ken Schneider to lead Great American Specialty Equipment

Great American Insurance Group has announced a significant leadership transition within its property and casualty operations.

Kenneth (Ken) W. Schneider has been promoted to Divisional President of Specialty Equipment – a move that signals continuity for the firm’s niche commercial insurance strategies.

Ken succeeds Victor (Vic) G. Villegas, who is set to retire in April after more than 35 years of service. The transition comes as the group continues to expand its digital footprint within the embedded insurance space, specifically targeting the commercial leasing sector.

A legacy of specialty expertise

Ken joined Great American Insurance Group in 1999 and has spent over two decades ascending through the organisation. His most recent tenure as Divisional Senior Vice President saw him leading business development, underwriting and product management for the Specialty Equipment Division.

His background is rooted in technical precision, holding a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Northern Kentucky University. As a licensed property and casualty agent, Ken brings a blend of analytical rigor and frontline insurance knowledge to the presidency.

Evolution of embedded solutions

The Specialty Equipment Division operates as a specialist arm providing more than just standard physical damage cover.

It focuses heavily on embedded insurance solutions tailored for businesses across the US and Canada. By integrating insurance directly into the leasing process, the division aims to streamline the customer experience through digital platforms and a consultative approach.

These programmes are designed to cover a vast array of assets across diverse industries. The division provides protection for equipment in construction, such as excavators and loaders, alongside office technology like copiers and phone systems.

Its reach extends into the medical sector, covering digital radiography and healthcare tools, as well as specialised machinery for the printing and binding industries.

Financial strength and ratings

Based in Cincinnati, Ohio, Great American Insurance Group has a history dating back to 1872.

The group’s flagship, Great American Insurance Company, maintains a formidable reputation in the property and casualty market, having received an “A” (Excellent) or higher rating from AM Best for more than 115 years. It is currently rated “A+” (Superior).

As subsidiaries of American Financial Group (AFG), the members of the insurance group remain focused on specialty commercial products.

Ken will now be responsible for maintaining this trajectory within the equipment sector, ensuring the division continues to leverage its 40 years of industry expertise to meet the evolving needs of the commercial equipment industry.

In the US, policies will continue to be underwritten by Great American Insurance Company, Great American Assurance Company and Great American Spirit Insurance Company, which are authorised insurers in all 50 states and DC.