CNA Financial Corp. opened a branch in Washington, D.C., an expansion the company says extends its geographic footprint and puts it closer to its agents, brokers and customers.

Thomas Motamed

The new office for the Chicago-based multi-line business and personal insurance agency is part of a strategy announced last year, company officials said in a statement.

“We are fortunate to be among the few businesses that are meeting the challenge of this economic environment by opening new doors and expanding employment opportunities within our industry,” said Thomas Motamed, chairman and chief executive officer of CNA, said in a statement.

“Our new D.C. branch will enable CNA to penetrate the capital’s robust market and diverse industries,” he said.

Motamed said key areas of concentration for the office include technology, education, real estate, manufacturing and distribution, and business/professional services.

George Agyen, mid-Atlantic zone officer, will lead the D.C. branch office, located at 2020 K Street, NW.