DOWN sizing and OUT sourcing

Given the harsh realities facing insurers, particularly after September 11, the seven staffers in the Fireman's Fund meetings and travel management department were bracing themselves for some thinning of their ranks. But no one expected five of them to get pink slips on October 30. The Novato, Calif., firm has already lined up outside contractors to take over their duties, part of an overall corporate decision to outsource a number of functions.