K2 OCONUS partners with Nationwide

K2 OCONUS, a division of K2 Insurance Services, has launched a Defense Base Act insurance program, which provides workers’ compensation coverage for US government contractors abroad.

Nationwide’s excess & surplus/specialty business is serving as the underwriter for the new program.

K2 OCONUS, led by Chris Leo, specializes in “all aspects” of DBA insurance and has “deep knowledge” in aviation, security operations, and risk assessment.

The Defense Base Act (DBA) is an extension of the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act. This Act provides disability compensation and medical benefits to employees and death benefits to eligible survivors of employees of U.S. government contractors who perform work overseas. The act provides a means of recovery for insurance carriers that pay claims due to an act of war on offshore workers compensation coverage.

“I’m extremely proud of the team we’ve assembled and the unique experience each of us brings at K2 OCONUS, from both insurance and military backgrounds. We are simply unmatched in this regard, and that in itself is special. Our entrance into the DBA Insurance Market signals a revolutionary approach to a market in need of a contemporary perspective on how our industry can better serve the mission of the customers. Equally, I am honored to be partnered with Nationwide, a leading specialty insurance company that shares our commitment to excellence and client-centric values.” – Chris Leo, Founder and CEO of K2 OCONUS.

“New players continue to emerge and present opportunities for Nationwide to expand our Workers’ Compensation offerings. We are pleased to launch this new partnership with K2 OCONUS–the expertise and knowledge they bring towards DBA will help us tap a new market.” – Dale Hoppe, Nationwide’s Vice President who leads the company’s E&S/Specialty WC programs.