Ace USA Appoints Engel Executive Vice President of Claims Organization

Ace USA has named James Engel executive vice president and chief claims officer. In this role, he will manage Ace USA's three claims operations, which include ESIS, Specialty Claims and the Brandywine management teams.

In addition, Engel will maintain his role as president of Brandywine Holdings, a position he has held since January 1996. In that capacity, he will maintain responsibility for inactive business, which consists of Major Claims and run-off operations in London and the U.S.

``Jim's 29 years in the insurance business and extensive experience in running a large, complex claims operation made him a great fit for this position,'' shared Dennis Reding, president and chief executive officer of Ace USA. ``Claims is one of our largest businesses, and we are positioning it as an even stronger force going forward.''

Prior to 1996, Engel was senior vice president, Policyholder Services for CIGNA Property & Casualty, where he managed claims, loss control and premium audit functions. Joining CIGNA in 1970, he served in various financial and systems positions before being named financial vice president for Recovery Services International, INAC (premium finance) and INA Loss Control Services in 1979.

In 1980, he was named vice president, Diversified Services, which included chief financial officer responsibilities for the Reinsurance and Services Division. From 1984 to 1986, he served as senior vice president, Field Operations for the division.

Engel said, ``Ace USA is committed to providing effective risk management solutions to its service customers and policyholders through our three distinct claims operations, each of which offers specific services. Combining responsibility for all of claims under one business, while maintaining the unique and specialized characteristics of each division, will help us achieve that commitment.''

Engel is a graduate of Gannon University (B.S., Finance) and attended the University of Pennsylvania - The Wharton School (Executive Management School).