Political risk insurance broker Berry Palmer & Lyle (BPL Global) has hired Margaret Ho as a senior broker in Hong Kong.

Ho joins the firm from JLT, where she spent the last 14 years, most recently as divisional director of the credit, political and security risks division in Hong Kong.

Ho’s appointment will help grow BPL’s expansion in Asia says a statement issued by the firm. She will report to chief executive Peter Gilbert, who has headed up the Hong Kong branch since its launch in 2011.

The announcement follows the opening of BPL’s Singapore office in July 2012. According to the firm, the move helped contribute to an 87% increase in its Asian enquiries year-on-year.

“We have seen considerable growth in the region this year, and we expect the revenue of our Asian operations to be up by more than 50% by our March 31 year end,” says co-founder Anthony Palmer, who heads up the Singapore branch.

Palmer adds: “We are delighted to welcome Margaret on board and her appointment significantly strengthens our team in Asia Pacific, underlining both the importance of the region to our global growth aspirations and our commitment to build upon last year’s success. Margaret is a highly-regarded insurance market professional, and we are confident that she will help us continue the successful development of our Hong Kong business both with local and international clients.”