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Azenta Life Sciences and Form Bio Announce Strategic Partnership to Advance AAV Gene Therapy Development

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Azenta Life Sciences and Form Bio Announce Strategic Partnership to Advance AAV Gene Therapy Development

Azenta, Inc. (Nasdaq: AZTA) today announced a strategic partnership between GENEWIZ from Azenta Life Sciences, a global provider of multiomics and synthetic solutions services, and Form Bio, a leading artificial intelligence (AI) life sciences technology company, to enhance adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene therapy development through a fully integrated sequencing and data analysis solution.

This partnership brings together GENEWIZ’s industry-leading next-generation sequencing services for AAV gene therapy with Form Bio’s AI- and machine learning-powered analysis pipelines. The integration of these capabilities aims to provide gene therapy developers with data-driven insights into AAV capsid contents, improving safety, efficacy, and manufacturability.

GENEWIZ will provide synthesis and packaging of transgene expression cassettes, complemented by high-quality, long-read sequencing services for AAV gene therapy. Form Bio will conduct comprehensive AAV Genome Integrity Characterization using Long-read AAV Analysis (LAAVA) software, identifying key opportunities to enhance vector integrity and safety, while providing actionable insights through detailed reporting. This combination enables a streamlined process that integrates sequencing, vector design, and development workflows, ultimately reducing time and cost to reach lead candidates, accelerating the path to market for innovative therapies.

“Our collaboration with Form Bio marks a major step forward in simplifying AAV gene therapy workflows,” said Ginger Zhou, President at GENEWIZ. “By combining our sequencing expertise with their cutting-edge analysis, we are enabling researchers to make more informed decisions and break through traditional hurdles found in gene therapy development.”

“Partnering with GENEWIZ allows us to embed our genome integrity insights directly into sequencing workflows,” said Andrew Busey, Co-Founder and CEO at Form Bio. “By integrating analysis earlier in the process, we’re helping gene therapy developers accelerate timelines, enhance vector safety, and improve the likelihood for clinical success.”

The partnership will officially launch at the 27th Annual Meeting of the American Society of Gene & Cell Therapy (ASGCT) in May 2025, where both companies will be exhibiting (booth numbers 1711 and 1143). A poster highlighting their collaborative work “The Long and Short of It: Comparing Next Generation Sequencing Methods for Quality Control in AAV Development” will be presented on May 15, 5:30-7:00 pm EST, poster #1612.

About Form Bio

Form Bio delivers cutting-edge AI and computational solutions to accelerate therapeutic development in cell and gene therapy. With its proprietary FORMsightAI platform, Form Bio enables rapid in silico genome integrity characterization and optimization of nucleic acid-based therapies—streamlining lead candidate selection. By integrating AI-powered design with deep expertise in molecular biology, bioinformatics, software engineering, and data science, Form Bio empowers drug developers to enhance therapeutic safety, efficacy, and manufacturability while reducing time and costs.

Form Bio is headquartered in Austin, Texas with teams and offices throughout the US. For more information, visit www.formbio.com or follow us on LinkedIn.

About Azenta Life Sciences

Azenta, Inc. (Nasdaq: AZTA) is a leading provider of life sciences solutions worldwide, enabling life science organizations around the world to bring impactful breakthroughs and therapies to market faster. Azenta provides a full suite of reliable cold-chain sample management solutions and multiomics services across areas such as drug development, clinical research and advanced cell therapies for the industry’s top pharmaceutical, biotech, academic and healthcare institutions globally. Our global team delivers and supports these products and services through our industry-leading brands, including GENEWIZ, FluidX, Ziath, 4titude, Limfinity, Freezer Pro, and Barkey.

Azenta is headquartered in Burlington, MA, with operations in North America, Europe and Asia. For more information, please visit www.azenta.com.

Voyomotive Launches VOYOHub to Expand Connected Car Services for Auto Shops

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Voyomotive Launches VOYOHub to Expand Connected Car Services for Auto Shops

Voyomotive, a leading innovator in connected vehicle technology, today announced the launch of VOYOHub, a powerful new feature within the company’s VOYOLink platform. VOYOHub allows auto repair shops to resell connected car services, manage customer relationships, and create new recurring revenue — all through a centralized web interface.

VOYOLink is the first SaaS platform that allows owners to connect their vehicles remotely to a shop with a single click. This integration gives shops real-time visibility into vehicle health and diagnostics before the car even enters the service bay. VOYOLink transforms how shops engage with both personal vehicles and fleets, delivering real-time diagnostics, predictive maintenance alerts, and business tools that modernize service delivery.

VOYOHub gives independent repair shops the ability to offer connected services that were once difficult to implement without OEM partnerships or expensive platforms. Whether servicing an individual driver or managing a fleet, shops now have the tools to bring modern, data-driven services to every customer.

“With VOYOHub, shops can transform their business model by offering connected car services that are easy to implement and valuable to customers,” said Peter Yorke, CEO at Voyomotive. “This is a powerful new capability for the aftermarket service industry.”

Shops can use VOYOHub through their VOYOLink account to:

  • Order VOYO devices at wholesale pricing
  • Create customer accounts and manage telematic subscriptions
  • Assign devices to customer vehicles and link them to service records
  • Use the VOYO Flex Plan to lease devices with no upfront costs
  • Resell devices and subscriptions to generate recurring revenue

VOYOTRAK: Added Value for Customers

Included with VOYOHub is VOYOTRAK, a vehicle and fleet management app that shops can offer as an added-value service. VOYOTRAK provides real-time insights into vehicle health, diagnostic trouble codes, and location — helping customers stay informed while strengthening the shop-customer relationship.

About Voyomotive

Voyomotive is a technology company transforming the automotive aftermarket with connected vehicle solutions. Its products — including VOYO, VOYOLink, VOYOHub, and VOYOTRAK — offer advanced diagnostics, telematics, and service automation features for consumers, fleets, and repair shops.

DRIVESHARE Classic Car Rental Platform Appoints McLean Media as Agency of Record to Lead PR and Brand Expansion

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DRIVESHARE Classic Car Rental Platform Appoints McLean Media as Agency of Record to Lead PR and Brand Expansion

DRIVESHARE, the premier platform for renting unique and special cars for weddings, events, photo shoots, and experiences, announced today the appointment of McLean Media as its PR agency of record in the US. Under this partnership, McLean Media will lead strategic public relations initiatives, brand positioning, and media outreach as DRIVESHARE continues to expand its presence across key automotive, lifestyle, and travel markets.

“Public relations is critical to DRIVESHARE’s next chapter. Our mission is to get even more incredible cars into the hands of people who crave unforgettable experiences, and that requires building stronger awareness and deeper trust across the markets we serve,” said Kent Mosbech, CEO of DRIVESHARE. “McLean Media stood out as the right partner to help us amplify our story, connect with new audiences, and accelerate our growth. We are excited to work together to bring DRIVESHARE’s vision to more drivers, dreamers, and doers.”

DRIVESHARE connects enthusiasts and event planners with memorable automotive experiences, offering access to a curated selection of classic, luxury, and unique vehicles across the country. With a renewed focus on weddings, special events, and experiential rentals, DRIVESHARE aims to redefine how people celebrate life’s biggest moments.

“DRIVESHARE is tapping into something powerful: the emotional connection people have with cars and the memories they create,” said Don F. McLean, Founder of McLean Media. “This is a brand built for the experience economy, and it deserves the kind of storytelling that accelerates its reach and impact. We are honored to partner with DRIVESHARE to amplify its message, spark new connections, and help more people turn once-in-a-lifetime moments into reality.”

For those looking to drive something extraordinary, add a special touch to a wedding or photo shoot, or share your own car with others, DRIVESHARE makes it easy. Explore unforgettable vehicles, create lasting memories, or join the community by listing your car today.

Visit DRIVESHARE.com to get started.

About DRIVESHARE

DRIVESHARE is a peer-to-peer car-sharing community that connects classic and collector car owners with enthusiasts seeking unforgettable driving experiences. Whether it’s for a wedding, photo shoot, special event, or simply the joy of driving a vintage vehicle, DRIVESHARE offers a curated selection of unique cars across the country. The platform emphasizes shared passions, trust, and human connection, ensuring that every rental includes an in-person key handoff and flexible coverage options. For more information, visit DRIVESHARE.com.

About McLean Media McLean Media is a Michigan-based strategic marketing, communications, and PR agency that helps innovative companies turn attention into impact. From startups to established brands, McLean Media specializes in media relations, brand storytelling, executive visibility, and thought leadership. Recently, the agency was named Boutique Agency of the Year by Bulldog Reporter for its creative campaigns and measurable results. With deep expertise in positioning companies for growth, McLean Media partners with clients across industries to build influence, earn trust, and drive results. Learn more at mcleanmedia.co.

Cliniphai Appoints Former Medidata Quality Head as Chief Compliance Officer to Strengthen Standards For AI-Powered Clinical Translation and Localization Tool

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Cliniphai Appoints Former Medidata Quality Head as Chief Compliance Officer to Strengthen Standards For AI-Powered Clinical Translation and Localization Tool

Great Falls, Montana and Kyiv, Ukraine – Cliniphai, an AI Agent and Framework platform purpose-built to solve complex challenges in life sciences, today announced the appointment of Donna Wallace, MBA as Chief Compliance Officer. Wallace, who joined in April, will oversee Cliniphai’s global compliance programs and quality management systems, playing a critical role in ensuring that the company’s AI-powered solutions meet the highest standards for safety, effectiveness, and regulatory adherence.

With deep experience as a former quality and compliance leader for Medidata, Egnyte, and Organon, Wallace will lead the continued development of corporate standards and operational practices that reinforce Cliniphai’s commitment to ethical innovation and excellence.

“I am proud to step into the c-suite to provide leadership in promoting a culture of compliance and ethical conduct, while properly managing regulatory risks across our global operations,” said Wallace. “For years, I have been passionate about innovation and leveraging technology to advance patient outcomes, and I look forward to helping Cliniphai deliver solutions that are both transformational and also fully aligned with the high standards of quality and safety that our industry demands.”

Poised for AI growth

Wallace’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for Cliniphai, following the recent launch of Athena, its AI-powered clinical translation and localization workbench. Designed specifically for the life sciences industry, Athena streamlines complex translation processes with adaptive AI-driven support and human-in-the-loop control, addressing a major source of delays in clinical trial startups.

“AI is reshaping many workflows across our industry, and the right compliance is a critical foundation for everything we do at Cliniphai,” said Vladimir Mats, PhD, CEO, Cliniphai. “As we bring new AI-powered solutions to the market, Donna’s leadership will ensure that we continue to meet and exceed the trust that our clients place in us and help us continue to deliver innovation without compromise.”

Wallace emphasized the increasing role AI will play in the future of life sciences, noting the potential for AI to improve clinical research, enhance patient care, and reduce operational costs. She expects AI adoption across the industry to continue accelerating, particularly in streamlining the drug development process.

For more information or to request a demo of Cliniphai’s Athena, visit www.cliniphai.com or schedule a call at https://calendly.com/cliniphai.

About Cliniphai

Cliniphai is an AI Agent and Framework platform purpose-built to solve complex challenges in life sciences. The company’s flagship platform, Athena, is an AI-powered clinical translation and localization workbench focused on delivering secure, compliant, and high-quality solutions for life sciences, healthcare, and pharmaceutical organizations. Founded by industry veterans in clinical trial execution, technology development, and regulatory compliance, Cliniphai is redefining how organizations approach AI in life sciences without compromising accuracy, security, or compliance. For more information, visit www.cliniphai.com.

Waitlist Now Open for MySALT AI, the Detroit-Built Social Network Redefining Personal Connection with AI

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Waitlist Now Open for MySALT AI, the Detroit-Built Social Network Redefining Personal Connection with AI

In a bold move to reclaim what social networks were meant to be, MySALT AI has officially opened the waitlist for its highly anticipated beta launch. Founded in Detroit by tech entrepreneurs David “Stock” Baird and Erich Lightheart, MySALT AI is introducing a new model of digital life where users are empowered by personal artificial intelligence (AI). The platform’s goal is to use personal AIs to build human-to-AI trust and create a safer and smarter social networking experience.

At the core of MySALT AI is a breakthrough concept where every user gets their own personal AI that is custom-named, avatar-driven, and designed to grow with the user over time. These personal AIs handle everyday digital tasks like posting content, managing calendars, shopping, sending emails using their own email address, and even making connections on the user’s behalf. Unlike currently available corporate centric AIs, MySALT AI truly gives each user their own AI that is digitally connected to them.

“MySALT AI was built from the belief that people deserve better, safer tools to connect, create, and communicate,” said Baird, who has been vibe coding the platform since early 2024. “This platform is about putting power back where it belongs, with the users. Your AI should feel more like an ally, not an algorithm.”

What User Can Expect with MySALT.AI

This is a purpose-built social network grounded in personalization, privacy, and innovation. Key differentiators that users will experience in beta mode, include:

  • Persistent Identity and Control: Each AI is issued a secure MySALT ID and its own email address directly connected to its user, allowing it to send and receive communications across the internet with full transparency and control. AIs can author social posts on behalf of the user with its own profile, manage calendars, and even draft emails for users with proper approval.
  • True Personalization and Voice: Users can name their AI, select an avatar, and customize how it behaves. This assistant becomes a personal digital extension that understands preferences, conversations, shopping history, and goals.
  • Cross-Platform Capability: Personal AIs on MySALT can post content across multiple social platforms using the user’s credentials. It is the first of its kind to allow seamless presence management in one place.
  • AI-to-AI Networking: The platform introduces AI Connect Requests, a proprietary method where AIs communicate privately to validate new connections and give their users an AI Safety Rating about their user sending the connection request. This keeps scammers and bots out while creating more authentic interactions between users.
  • Premium AI Features Marketplace: MySALT offers a growing marketplace of AI enhancements. Users can choose to enhance their AI with premium features, including, Full Stack Engineer, Career Advisor, Content Creator, and integrations with third-party platforms.

Built in Detroit, for a Global Audience

Baird added, “While many tech platforms are born on the coasts, MySALT AI is proudly rooted in Detroit. We are a city known for reinvention, resilience, and building what matters. That spirit shaped our vision of MySALT AI to become a smarter, safer experience designed with purpose and powered by the people who use it.”

MySALT AI is currently inviting early users, creators, and privacy-conscious individuals to join the waitlist. Those selected will play a foundational role in shaping the platform’s next evolution.

One early beta user recently shared that, “The experience is seamless, secure, and radically more human than anything available today.”

Visit www.mysalt.ai to sign up.

About MySALT AI

Founded by David “Stock” Baird and co-founded by Erich Lightheart, MySALT AI is revolutionizing online connections through its Personal AI Social Network. The platform addresses the critical challenge of trust between humans and AI by making artificial intelligence truly personal. MySALT AI gives users complete control over their AI interactions within a secure environment, establishing meaningful connections that respect privacy and individuality. With its innovative approach, MySALT AI is strategically positioned for the emerging humanoid-integrated future. By prioritizing personalization, security, and user autonomy, the company is establishing a new paradigm for social networking that bridges human connection and artificial intelligence. For more information, visit: www.mysalt.ai.

PTP Acquires Stratogent to Bolster Managed Services Capabilities for Biotech Clients

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PTP Acquires Stratogent to Bolster Managed Services Capabilities for Biotech Clients
PTP
PTP

PTP, a leader in cloud consulting and managed services, is excited to announce the acquisition of Stratogent, a premier provider of managed IT services.

NORWOOD, Mass., March 18, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — PTP, a leader in cloud consulting and managed services, is excited to announce the acquisition of Stratogent, a premier provider of managed IT services. This strategic acquisition strengthens PTP’s ability to deliver tailored, high-performance solutions to its growing portfolio of biotechnology clients, supporting their unique needs in research, development, and regulatory compliance.

Meeting Biotech’s Unique IT Demands

With the biotech industry experiencing rapid innovation, organizations face increasing challenges in managing complex IT infrastructures, ensuring compliance with stringent regulations, and securely handling sensitive data. The integration of Stratogent’s expertise in managed services with PTP’s deep knowledge of cloud technologies positions the combined entity as a trusted partner for biotech companies seeking scalable, secure, and compliant IT solutions.

“Our acquisition of Stratogent marks a significant milestone in our mission to empower life sciences companies with cutting-edge technology and managed services,” said Ethan Simmons, President of PTP. “By adding Stratogent’s capabilities and resources, we are uniquely positioned to offer a tremendous breadth and depth support, allowing early and mid-stage biotech organizations to focus on innovation while we take care of their IT needs.”

Enhanced Capabilities for Biotech Clients

The acquisition brings together two growing managed services companies with complementary strengths, enabling:

  • Tailored Cloud Services: Scalable infrastructure design, implementation, and optimization to support biotech research and operations.
  • 24/7 Managed IT Support: Proactive monitoring and maintenance to ensure system uptime and performance.
  • Regulatory Compliance Expertise: Comprehensive solutions to meet HIPAA, GxP, GDPR, and other critical compliance standards supported by an organization with a SOC II, Type 2 report for validation.
  • Cybersecurity Excellence: Advanced threat detection and mitigation strategies to protect sensitive data.

A Seamless Integration

The combined team of experts will work together to ensure a seamless transition for existing clients of both companies. Stratogent’s operations will continue uninterrupted, and PTP plans to integrate its services into a unified platform to deliver enhanced value to customers.

“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to excellence in managed services,” said Jishnu Mitra, CEO of Stratogent. “By joining PTP, we are excited to bring even more comprehensive and innovative solutions to our clients, powered by over 300 client-facing engineers.”

About PTP

PTP is a leading provider of cloud consulting and managed services, helping businesses leverage cloud technology to achieve their strategic goals. With deep expertise in AWS, PTP specializes in delivering secure, scalable, and compliant solutions for the biotechnology industry.

About Stratogent

Stratogent is a trusted provider of managed IT services, offering 24/7 operations, cloud management, and cybersecurity solutions. With a focus on delivering enterprise-grade services, Stratogent has supported businesses in optimizing IT performance and reliability for over a decade.

VENUS AEROSPACE OUTFITS ITS RECORD-SETTING HYPERSONIC ENGINE SYSTEM WITH NASA-SUPPORTED TECHNOLOGY

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VENUS AEROSPACE OUTFITS ITS RECORD-SETTING HYPERSONIC ENGINE SYSTEM WITH NASA-SUPPORTED TECHNOLOGY

Venus Aerospace, the startup building the world’s most advanced engine system for hypersonic flight, today announced the successful completion of a NASA-supported technological advancement—one that will outfit Venus’s record-setting hypersonic engine system during an upcoming flight demonstration later this summer.

Venus Aerospace RDRE Hot Fire Test
Venus Aerospace RDRE Hot Fire Test

Through a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) award, NASA supports high-potential companies building the future of aerospace technology. Venus used NASA’s award to test new nozzle designs—the part of the engine that shapes and directs power—for its unique, compact rocket engine. The top-performing design exceeded expectations and will be integrated into Venus’s ground-based launch test in the coming months.

“We’ve already proven our engine outperforms traditional systems on both efficiency and size,” said CEO Sassie Duggleby. “The technology we developed with NASA’s support will now be part of our integrated engine platform—bringing us one step closer to proving that efficient, compact, and affordable hypersonic flight can be scaled.”

The engine at the center of Venus’s flight platform is a Rotating Detonation Rocket Engine (RDRE)—a system long considered promising but never proven at scale. Venus is the first U.S. company to make a scalable, affordable RDRE flight-ready. Unlike conventional rocket engines, the Venus RDRE operates through supersonic shockwaves—called detonations—that generate more power with less fuel.

“This is just the beginning of what can be achieved with Venus propulsion technology,” said Andrew Duggleby, Venus Aerospace CTO. “We’ve built a compact, high-performance system that unlocks speed, range, and agility across aerospace, defense, and many other applications. And we’re confident in its readiness for flight.”

This summer’s flight will mark a significant milestone in demonstrating efficient, affordable, detonation-based propulsion at scale. Combined with Venus’s in-house IP and performance breakthroughs—including previously demonstrated efficiency in the upper 90th percentile compared to standard rocket engines—the integrated system is now one of the most advanced of its kind. And it’s just the beginning, with more innovations on the horizon. 

One Engine System. All Speeds.
This development builds on a series of advances at Venus Aerospace. Last fall, the company unveiled a high-speed engine system that enables takeoff, acceleration, and hypersonic cruise—all powered by a single engine architecture. While most high-speed systems require multiple engines to operate at different speeds, Venus’s approach eliminates the cost, weight, and complexity of traditional propulsion technology.

The system delivers rocket-like takeoff power and jet-like cruise efficiency—all in a remarkably compact form. Its elegant simplicity unlocks major advantages in speed, range, reusability, and cost—enabling a vehicle to accelerate from runway to Mach 5+ without changing engines.

The Venus system supports a wide range of applications, including:

  • Spacecraft landers
  • Low Earth orbit satellites
  • Space cargo transfer vehicles
  • Rocket kick-stages
  • Hypersonic drones and missiles

About Venus Aerospace
Founded in 2020, Venus Aerospace is solving the holy grail of high-speed flight. The company is developing a next-generation propulsion system that combines detonation-based rocket thrust with jet-like cruise efficiency—enabling compact, scalable engines for space, defense, and commercial aviation. At the center of Venus’s latest milestone is its flight-ready RDRE, a highly efficient, ultra-compact engine ideal for agile defense systems and space access. Venus has now added air-breathing capability to this core design, enabling acceleration from runway to Mach 5+, all with a single engine system. This breakthrough dramatically simplifies the path to hypersonic flight and will ultimately power the Stargazer M4, a reusable Mach 4-capable aircraft designed for high-speed, long-range travel. Backed by leading venture investors, Venus partners with NASA, the U.S. Department of Defense, and other federal agencies to deliver hypersonic innovation—faster, cleaner, and at a scale more accessible than ever before.

The Hanover and Hagerty Collaborate to Provide Collector Car Protection

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The Hanover and Hagerty Collaborate to Provide Collector Car Protection

The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. (NYSE: THG), a leading national insurance provider for individuals, families and businesses, today announced a collaboration with Hagerty (HGTY) to provide specialized insurance for classic cars. The new product, Hanover Collector Car, powered by Hagerty, combines the total account protection The Hanover is known for with Hagerty’s expertise in collector vehicle claims and valuation services.

“We believe protecting customers’ most precious assets with one carrier is critical in helping them gain true peace of mind,” said Brad McCreedy, vice president of personal lines strategy at The Hanover. “The Hanover’s relationship with Hagerty allows us to strengthen our total account offerings and ease of doing business, with the outstanding claims experience our customers expect – backed by experts who really understand this unique market. It’s the best of both worlds.”

Hanover Collector Car, powered by Hagerty, is offered through The Hanover’s independent agents in Michigan and Illinois to new and existing customers. The company expects to expand this offering to more states in the future.

“We believe that joining forces with The Hanover further supports collectible car owners who want to protect the vehicles that mean so much to them,” said Nick Cassell, Hagerty’s Vice President – Insurance Business Partner. “We look forward to working with The Hanover and their exceptional independent agent partners to achieve our mutual goal of protecting more of these cars.”

To learn more, please visit: Hanover Collector Car, powered by Hagerty.

About The Hanover
The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. is the holding company for several property and casualty insurance companies, which together constitute one of the largest insurance businesses in the United States. The company provides exceptional insurance solutions through a select group of independent agents and brokers. Together with its agent partners, The Hanover offers standard and specialized insurance protection for small and mid-sized businesses, as well as for homes, automobiles, and other personal items. For more information, please visit hanover.com.  

About Hagerty, Inc.
Hagerty is an automotive enthusiast brand committed to saving driving and to fueling car culture for future generations. The company is a leading provider of specialty vehicle insurance, expert car valuation data and insights, live and digital car auction services, immersive events and automotive entertainment custom made for the 67 million Americans who self-describe as car enthusiasts. Hagerty also operates in Canada and the U.K. and is home to Hagerty Drivers Club, a community of over 850,000 who can’t get enough of cars. For more information, please visit www.hagerty.com or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Transatlantic Underwriters Launches New Property & Casualty Insurance Division

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Transatlantic Underwriters Launches New Property & Casualty Insurance Division

Transatlantic Underwriters (TAU), a leader in specialty insurance for the transportation industry, announces the launch of a new Property & Casualty (P&C) division to expand service offerings while maintaining a strong commitment to transportation clients.

Bernadette Flores, TAU Senior Vice President of Property and Casualty
Bernadette Flores, TAU Senior Vice President of Property and Casualty

The strategic expansion introduces six new lines of business: Commercial General & Excess Liability, Commercial Property, Inland Marine, Builders Risk, and Garage. This move represents a significant evolution for TAU, which began as a three-person operation in 1989 and has grown significantly in recent years, with continued growth on the horizon.

“Since founding TAU, I’ve always envisioned expanding beyond our transportation specialty when the timing was right,” said Colby Waltenburg, President of Transatlantic Underwriters. “Our transportation operations are thriving, and we’re now positioned to diversify our offerings to better serve existing customers and welcome new partners. This expansion strengthens our organization while maintaining our commitment to exceptional service in the transportation space.”

To lead this new division, TAU has appointed Bernadette Flores as Senior Vice President of Property & Casualty. Flores brings over 24 years of experience in the excess and surplus P&C sector, with particular expertise in Contractors, Garage, Habitational, and Hospitality.

“I’ve known Colby for over 20 years and have always admired TAU’s approach to specialty insurance,” said Flores. “The opportunity to build a new division from the ground up is something I’ve aspired to accomplish during my career. I’m incredibly thankful and excited to lead this initiative, bringing TAU’s reputation for excellence to these new lines of business.”

Flores will operate from TAU’s San Francisco Bay Area office, where she began her new role in early April 2025.

The company noted that website updates reflecting the new lines of business will be implemented soon, providing detailed information about the expanded offerings. Visit tau-usa.com in the coming weeks for more insight.

About Transatlantic Underwriters
Transatlantic Underwriters (TAU) is a specialized wholesale insurance brokerage that has been providing competitive pricing, stellar service, and coverage for unique risks since 1989. With a foundation of excellence in transportation insurance and now expanding into Property & Casualty lines, TAU combines industry expertise with personalized service to protect businesses nationwide.

NSM Insurance Group Announces Completion of Transaction with New Mountain Capital

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NSM Insurance Group Announces Completion of Transaction with New Mountain Capital

NSM Insurance Group (“NSM”), a global specialty insurance provider, announced today it has completed the sale of its U.S. commercial insurance division to New Mountain Capital (“New Mountain”), a leading growth-oriented investment firm with over $55 billion in assets under management.

The agreement encompasses NSM’s diverse portfolio of 15 market-leading niche insurance programs across Property & Casualty, Accident & Health and Reinsurance — as well as its retail agency, NSM Insurance Brokers.

As the NSM business evolves into two separate entities as a result of the sale, new brands will be announced shortly for both the U.S. commercial division and the company’s remaining direct-to-consumer insurance brands.  

As a result of the transaction, Geof McKernan and Bill McKernan have joined the board of directors for the new entity backed by New Mountain, and Aaron Miller, Chief Commercial Lines Officer at NSM, has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.

Geof McKernan, NSM’s Founder commented, “We are extremely pleased to complete the transaction with New Mountain and I’m confident they are the perfect partner to accelerate the growth of the business as they embark on this next chapter of the company’s evolution and deliver significant value to the team and its partners and customers.”

Robert Mulcare, Managing Director, and Sean Donovan, Director at New Mountain Capital, added, “We are excited about this milestone and look forward to collaborating with Aaron and the team to build the business into the leading independent commercial insurance MGA, recognized for its exceptional team, innovation and specialty solutions.”

About NSM Insurance Group
NSM Insurance Group is a global specialty insurance provider, exclusively focused on building successful insurance programs. For more than 30 years, NSM has been committed to delivering industry-specific insurance programs that help agents meet the unique needs of their customers and fuel market growth through innovative development, underwriting, distribution and risk management expertise. The company has built more than $2 billion in premium across 30+ specialty insurance programs and brands around the world focused on collector cars; student health and travel; social services and behavioral health; addiction treatment; coastal condominiums; towing and garage; trucking; sports and fitness; professional liability for architects and engineers, lawyers, CPAs and doctors; habitational; community association management; commercial and residential contractors; staffing; workers’ compensation; medical stop-loss and managed care; and facultative reinsurance. For more information on NSM, visit nsminc.com.

About New Mountain Capital
New Mountain Capital is a New York-based investment firm that emphasizes business building and growth, rather than excessive risk, as it pursues long-term capital appreciation. The firm currently manages private equity, strategic equity, credit, and net lease real estate funds with nearly $55 billion in assets under management. New Mountain seeks out what it believes to be the highest quality growth leaders in carefully selected industry sectors and then works intensively with management to build the value of these companies. For more information, visit www.newmountaincapital.com.

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