SAN FRANCISCO, CA – September 15, 2009 – Equity Risk Partners (ERP), the only full service insurance brokerage and consulting firm focused exclusively on the needs of the private equity industry, unveiled its newest practice with the announcement of its Infrastructure and Privatization Group. Responding to the tremendous allocation of capital by private equity firms to infrastructure and privatization projects, as well as in an effort to position itself for the expected influx of infrastructure and mixed-use development that will result from the impending economic recovery, Equity Risk Partners has allocated its resources to start this pioneering business practice. 

Recognizing the need for reputable and reliable due diligence and insurance brokerage services as private equity firms invest in opportunities in infrastructure, commercial business development, office parks and mixed-use projects, Equity Risk Partners has established itself as the only firm currently seamlessly focused in this arena. ERP is committed to making this practice succeed by working with both private sector and public entity organizations, where there is a need for unique experience and expertise. 

To head the new operation, Equity Risk Partners has brought in industry veteran Peter French, leveraging his decades of experience in large scale construction and infrastructure insurance to navigate the nuances of the field. The Infrastructure and Privatization Group expands upon Equity Risk Partners’ existing practice areas, which include due diligence, employee benefits, property/casualty, personal risk management, risk management consulting, transactional products, services and trade credit/political risk. 

“With billions of dollars dedicated to future infrastructure improvements combined with the trend towards privatization, we are expecting rapid growth in these areas as the economy rebounds,” said Michael Marcon, CEO, Equity Risk Partners. “Our clients want to protect their investments and we play a meaningful role in helping them achieve that goal. We are thrilled that Peter's vast experience allows us to offer these organizations such a valuable service.” 

“The meticulous way in which Equity Risk Partners conducts due diligence and our extensive private equity industry experience will benefit both current and new clients looking at new infrastructure and privatization opportunities,” said Peter French, managing director, Equity Risk Partners. “The timing of this group’s development further demonstrates the corporate vision of creating long term relationships that rely on a thorough understanding of a client’s business in order to provide effective counsel. By getting out of the proverbial gate before the need arises we will be well positioned to execute quickly when the calls come in.” 

Peter French comes to Equity Risk Partners from Willis HRH where he served as the national practice leader for HRH’s construction practice. Prior to his time with Willis Group, Peter held a variety of senior-level positions with Marsh in the Denver, San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego offices, mastering the insurance business from all angles. 

Based in Equity Risk Partners’ San Francisco headquarters, the Infrastructure and Privatization Group will serve private equity clients and their portfolio companies around the world. 

More information about Equity Risk Partners is available at www.equityrisk.com.