Dateline: 22/12/2004
SCHAUMBURG, Ill., December 22, 2004 — Zurich, one of the nation’s largest property-casualty insurance providers, announced today that it has appointed Joseph Wells, 45, as Director of its Workers Compensation Line of Business. Wells succeeds Bob Rheel, who was named Chief Executive Officer of Zurich’s General Insurance operations in Ireland.
In his new role, Wells will work closely with Zurich’s Workers Compensation Line of Business (LOB) Network, Chief Underwriting Officers and other business unit leaders to direct the company’s workers compensation programs in North America through detailed analysis and implementation of best practice thinking and tools.
“Joseph brings a wealth of experience and domain expertise with him to his new position,” said Gary Kaplan, Chief Underwriting Officer at Zurich. “His understanding of workers comp issues is a key reason why we have made progress in helping build superior and sustainable underwriting results.”
Wells has been an integral member of Zurich’s Workers Compensation LOB since its inception in 2002, most recently as Senior Project Manager. He joined the organization from Fireman’s Fund, where he held a variety of product line leadership roles. He has also worked with a number of other major carriers, including AIG, TIG, Wausau and USF&G. Wells holds a bachelor’s degree in Management from Texas A&M and is a graduate of the Wharton School of Business’ Executive Training Program.
About Zurich Financial Services
Zurich Financial Services (www.zurich.com) is an insurance-based financial services provider with a global network that focuses its activities on its key markets in North America and Europe. Founded in 1872, Zurich is headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland. Through its offices in more than 50 countries, 62,000 Zurich employees serve clients in more than 120 countries. In North America, Zurich (www.zurichna.com) is a leading commercial property-casualty insurance provider serving the global and domestic corporate, middle market, small business, specialties and programs sectors.
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Media Contacts:
Steve McKay
Zurich
(847)-706-2265
steve.mckay@zurichna.com
Wendy Shapiro
Miller DeMartine Group
(203) 221 -2790
wshapiro@mdgpr.com