Zurich North America (NA) has carried out a leadership overhaul within its US National Accounts and Underwriting divisions.

Heather Fox, who has served as the chief underwriting officer (CUO) for Zurich NA, will head the US National Accounts business following Paul Lavelle's retirement.

Peter Caminiti, previously head of underwriting for US National Accounts, is set to become the new CUO of Zurich NA.

Fox joined Zurich NA in 2023 and has more than 25 years of experience.

Fox's career includes senior roles at ARC Excess & Surplus and AIG, where she held the positions of general counsel and CUO for executive liability insurance lines.

Caminiti's promotion to North America CUO comes after his service as head of underwriting for US National Accounts.

With Zurich since 2014, Caminiti previously acted as interim CUO, establishing relationships with the company's core clientele and brokers.

Both Fox and Caminiti will join the Zurich NA executive committee and the group leadership team, with Fox also joining the Global Commercial Insurance leadership team.

Lavelle will remain until 1 June to support the transition.

During his seven-year tenure with Zurich, Lavelle has been pivotal in advancing the commercial business in North America, including a three-year period as chief claims officer.

With more than 30 years of experience, he held several positions at Allstate and AIG.

Lavelle initiated the Claims Judicial and Legislative Affairs group and led the development of a specialised offering for excess casualty capacity.

Zurich NA CEO Kristof Terryn said: "I am thrilled about Heather and Peter taking on these new roles. Heather has been instrumental in the success of Zurich North America in her previous role as Chief Underwriting Officer. Her deep market understanding and prior experience will position her perfectly to take on this next role and achieve the Group's goals.

“Peter is one of the best underwriters in the industry, with over 20 years of industry experience in underwriting and product management. He is well prepared for this broader leadership role.”

Terryn added: "I also want to wish Paul the very best in his retirement. His contributions have been instrumental in shaping our commercial business and claims operations.”

These executive changes follow the appointment of Eric Amadori as the head of management liability – public at Zurich NA.

"Zurich rejigs leadership in US National Accounts and Underwriting " was originally created and published by Life Insurance International, a GlobalData owned brand.