GEICO's office in Katy was selected to serve as the main hub to manage the company's commercial insurance operations. The expansion of this office is expected to add hundreds of jobs to the area, officials said.

On Feb. 15, executives from the insurance company hosted a ceremony to commemorate the expansion of its Katy office, located at 21420 Merchants Way, Katy. The company was joined by community and business leaders, including Angie Thomason, acting president of the Katy Area Economic Development Council, and Maida Guillen, the community engagement coordinator for Harris County Precinct 4.

With this expansion, GEICO expects to add 250-500 new positions in Katy over the next five years, according to a Feb. 15 press release.

“The hundreds of jobs we’re adding here in Katy over the next few years will primarily focus on small business insurance sales and customer service,” Melissa Gallaro, GEICO senior vice president, said in the release.

Following the ceremony, a restored vehicle was gifted to a recipient nominated by Fort Bend Women’s Shelter through the National Auto Body Council Recycled Rides program. The program is a collaboration between businesses in which they repair and donate vehicles to individuals and families in need of reliable transportation.

GEICO was originally founded in 1936 and insures more than 28 million vehicles nationwide. 832-772-0592. www.geico.com