Md. Governor Names Orr as Insurance Commissioner

Maryland Governor Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr., has selected R. Steven Orr to serve as Maryland Insurance Commissioner. He succeeds Alfred W. Redmer, who resigned in October 2005 to join the private sector.

Orr, 53, most recently served as senior vice president and chief information officer for the Universal Underwriters Group (a member of Zurich Financial Services Inc.), a position he held from 2000. Between 1982 and 2000, he was involved in the start-up and operation of businesses specializing in information technology systems and project management

His early career experience also includes several years of work in commercial banking with Mercantile Safe Deposit & Trust Company.
Orr is a graduate of Wake Forest University, and holds an M.B.A. from the University of Virginia. He holds a chartered property casualty underwriter (CPCU) designation.

The appointment of Orr is for the balance of a 4-year term from June 1, 2003. This is a recess action, subject to confirmation by the Maryland State Senate in the 2006 Session of the General Assembly.

“It is a pleasure to name Mr. Orr as head the Maryland Insurance Administration,” said Governor Ehrlich. “His knowledge and experience in the industry will enable him to effectively represent the interests of Maryland consumers. I am extremely confident that Mr. Orr will provide the vision, leadership and commitment needed to further the interests of our citizens.”