Zurich announced today that Michael Garceau has been appointedchief operating officer of its Specialties business unit in NorthAmerica based in Schaumburg, Ill.

In this role, Mr. Garceau will assume leadership responsibilityfor all operations of the business unit, including finance,strategic planning, and business model development andimplementation, the company said.

"Michael is a forward-looking strategist who brings us theoperational and analytical expertise to respond appropriately toour rapidly changing environment," said Seraina Maag, president ofZurich North America Commercial's Specialties business unit.

Mr. Garceau has 22 years of experience in the commercialinsurance industry, most recently as senior vice president, chieffinancial officer of Chubb Specialty Insurance, where he was amember of the team serving this global business unit.

Prior to joining Chubb, Mr. Garceau held senior financepositions with Executive Risk, UnitedHealthcare and TravelersInsurance.

"As one of the top-tier providers of specialty insuranceproducts in North America, Zurich is a leader in its selectedmarkets," Mr. Garceau said. "My goal is to provide the operationalfoundation that will enable us to continue to excel."

Zurich's North America Commercial and Global Corporate in NorthAmerica business divisions are part of Zurich Financial ServicesGroup, Zurich, Switzerland.