Starr Underwriting Agents Asia has relocated to Melbourne after spending the past two years in Sydney.

The company writes business for Lloyd’s and includes specialist groups Starr Marine and Starr Tech.

Starr Marine Regional Manager Australia and New Zealand Jill Murphy says Melbourne is a logical location.

“Many energy, mining and trading companies have head offices there,” she told insuranceNEWS.com.au. “It makes sense for us to be where our clients are.”

Former Zurich Energy Underwriting Manager Martin Ford has joined the team in Victoria as Starr Tech’s Senior Underwriting Manager Australia and New Zealand.

He will focus on energy risks including mining, power, oil and gas, plus processing industries such as pulp, paper, steel, breweries and other heavy industry. He has more than 20 years’ experience in his field.

The group plans steady growth. “It will be very staged,” Ms Murphy said. “We’re not looking for 15 people.”