Zurich has announced a new appointment and promotion in a bid to strengthen its presence in Victoria.
The company has hired Melanie Schulties as national directors & officers product manager and promoted Mark Cocks to senior underwriter, corporate institutions.
Schulties brings over two decades of industry experience to the business, primarily with
AIG in Victoria, and will lead product innovation for D&O liability, crime and employment practices liability.
She will also focus on underwriting strategies, national corporate planning and market engagement, the company confirmed in a statement.
Giles Crowley, Zurich’s executive general manager, Global Corporate, Australia and New Zealand welcomed Schulties to the business and was pleased to attract top talent to the Zurich business.
“As Global Corporate continues to evolve in Australia, we are delighted to attract top talent to our team as well as offer career progression opportunities within our business,” Crowley said.
Cocks will become senior underwriter, corporate institutions with over 16 years of industry experience following a stint as senior business development underwriter, financial lines.
Crowley said that both additions will see Zurich strengthen its presence in key markets as D&O increases in importance for many businesses.
“With Directors and Officers coverage now being an agenda item in board meetings and the ever increasing regulatory burden being placed on companies, the importance of a robust insurance solution is more important than ever before,” Crowley continued.
“As some company directors take decisions to also expand into emerging global markets, the deployment of a compliant and efficient international program is critical.
“Both Melanie and Mark will play a key role in delivering on Zurich's commitment to be the best provider of Directors and Officers and International Program solutions in the Australian market.”
