Leadership Transition at Roanoke – Karen Groff to Assume Role of President

The liability landscape for the trade and transportation industry is changing. Carrier accidents on the road resulting in bodily injury and property damage (BIPD) claims pose a real financial threat to brokers, forwarders, and other transportation intermediaries. Recently, the number of large trucks involved in fatal crashes and the resulting jury awards have skyrocketed. Inconsistent application of the law has put the burden of these “nuclear verdicts” on not just the carriers but also the broker-forwarders responsible for hiring the carriers. This volatile litigation landscape and the rise in “nuclear verdicts” has specifically led to two related issues for transportation […]

Fictitious pickups are increasing in North America. In the US, the percentage of cargo thefts due to fictitious pickup rose from 1% in 2022 to 17% in 2023. Strategic theft patterns are also rising, where thieves use identity theft and fraud with fictitious pickup and brokering schemes to obtain loads from freight locations. Combatting this menace requires a combination of vigilance, technology, and a well-trained staff. Let’s explore some effective strategies for guarding against fictitious pickups and minimizing the risk of falling victim to scams. Per Tony Pelli, Practice Director, BSI Consulting, Specializing in Supply Chain and Security Risk Management, […]

Karen has been a part of Roanoke for nearly 20 years. During this time, she has shown exceptional leadership skills and technical expertise in multiple customer-facing positions, such as Head of Marine & Liability Underwriting and Head of Liability Claims. Her most recent role was SVP, Chief Underwriting Officer, Marine at Munich Re Specialty Group N.A. where she was responsible for leading our inland, ocean and cargo liability underwriting teams. One of her notable contributions was developing essential insurance policies for our clients in the logistics sector. She also demonstrated outstanding dedication in promptly and favorably settling complex liability claims. […]