Stewart Title Welcomes a New Leader in Underwriting
Stewart Title is excited to announce Heather Bland as the new Senior Vice President and Chief Underwriting Counsel for Direct Operations. In this important role, she will closely collaborate with the company’s Legal Department and Direct Operations leadership to craft effective underwriting strategies, focusing on enhancing the company’s commercial capabilities.
Heather Bland: Background and Experience
With over 20 years of extensive experience in the title insurance industry, particularly in underwriting and claims administration, Bland brings invaluable expertise. Ryan Swed, Head of U.S. Direct Operations, highlighted her extensive experience in underwriting across the country, which provides a solid foundation for the vital role she’s about to take on.
Previous Position at Old Republic National Title Insurance Company
Before joining Stewart Title, Heather served as Vice President and Senior National Counsel at the National Commercial Services office in Chicago for Old Republic National Title Insurance Company. In this role, she focused on underwriting title insurance policies and endorsement coverages while managing complex commercial real estate transactions nationwide.
Opportunities in the Title Industry
Upon her onboarding at Stewart Title, Bland shared her vision for the title industry, noting that it's entering an exciting growth phase. Wilhelmina Kightlinger, Chief Underwriting Counsel for National Commercial Services, remarked that Heather’s addition to the team strengthens their ability to cultivate the next generation of underwriters.
Growth and Market Recognition at Stewart Title
Recently, Stewart Title has seen significant growth and gained positive recognition in the market. Bland expressed her enthusiasm about collaborating with an exceptional team to enhance their already acclaimed underwriting service.
Heather Bland's Educational and Professional Involvement
Bland earned both her Bachelor’s degree and Juris Doctorate from Northern Illinois University and holds a license to practice law in Illinois. She is actively engaged with the American Land Title Association, contributing to the ALTA/NSPS Land Survey Work Group and its Forms Committee. Bland also holds the Illinois Title Professional designation and previously served as a board member of the Illinois Land Title Association.
About Stewart Title
Stewart Title (NYSE: STC) is a leader in real estate services on a global scale, offering a wide array of products and services. These range from residential and commercial title insurance to comprehensive solutions in closing and settlement services tailored for the mortgage and real estate sectors. Stewart is dedicated to achieving mutual success with partners and customers in every real estate transaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What role did Heather Bland assume at Stewart Title?
Heather Bland has joined Stewart Title as the new Senior Vice President and Chief Underwriting Counsel for Direct Operations.
How many years of experience does Heather Bland have in the title insurance industry?
Bland brings over 20 years of experience in the title insurance industry, focusing on underwriting and claims administration.
What previous position did Heather hold before joining Stewart Title?
Previously, she was Vice President and Senior National Counsel at Old Republic National Title Insurance Company.
What is Stewart Title's focus in the coming years?
Stewart Title aims to enhance its underwriting strategy and grow its commercial capabilities in the market.
What industry organizations is Heather Bland involved with?
Heather is a member of the American Land Title Association and the Illinois Land Title Association, where she also held a board position.
