Specialty Insurers Boost Leadership to Drive Growth and Operations
Three specialty insurance firms have announced significant leadership appointments to bolster their operations in North America and internationally. H.W. Kaufman Group appointed Jonathan Tritton as managing director of its specialty broking unit, Burns & Wilcox Global Solutions, where he will contribute to the company's global growth strategy from London. Tritton brings leadership experience from Acrisure London Wholesale and Marsh, strengthening Kaufman's global footprint.
CRC Group expanded its specialty division with three new hires across key U.S. markets. Ian Teti joined as assistant vice president in Seattle focusing on casualty brokerage and underwriting within construction, property/inland marine, and workers' compensation sectors. Kasey Armstrong became senior broker in Boca Raton with over 15 years of expertise in professional liability and program development. In Fort Worth, Dakota Durant was appointed underwriting team leader, specializing in commercial property and casualty risk advising, enhancing CRC's client solutions capability.
AM Specialty Insurance Group promoted Olivia Barder to group chief operating officer, overseeing global operations and aligning long-term strategic initiatives. Barder’s operational leadership since 2017, including governance enhancements and establishment of AM Specialty Insurance Company, positions her to drive the company's expansion in the specialty insurance industry. An attorney with advanced degrees in law and international relations, Barder's appointment reflects a focus on governance and operational excellence.
These leadership moves across specialty insurance carriers illustrate a commitment to strengthening underwriting expertise, operational governance, and strategic growth in competitive markets. Expanding talent pools in specialty lines support the development of tailored insurance products and enhanced client service capabilities.
Such appointments underscore the importance of experienced management in navigating complex commercial risk profiles and advancing digital and global strategies in specialty insurance. They also reflect broader industry trends emphasizing leadership agility to support evolving market demands and regulatory compliance frameworks.
Collectively, these changes may impact carrier competitiveness and product innovation going forward, potentially influencing underwriting standards, distribution strategies, and operational efficiencies. Monitoring these leadership dynamics provides insight into market positioning and growth trajectories within the U.S. specialty insurance sector.