Argo Group US, a subsidiary of Argo Group InternationalHoldings, Ltd., appointed former ACE Westchester executive LouisLevinson to head up the Argo Group's E&S segment.

As president of the segment, Mr. Levinson will oversee theunderwriting and business operations of Colony, Argonaut Specialtyand Argo Pro, the group announced in a March 17 statement.

Mr. Levinson will be based in Argo Group's New York office andwill take on his new responsibilities on April 6.

Mark E. Watson III, president and chief executive officer ofArgo Group International Holdings, Ltd, said, "The E&S segmentis a core part of our specialty franchise, and while themarketplace has been challenged recently, we look forward to Lou'sleadership to help create maximum value from the market presence wehave developed."

Mr. Levinson will report to the head of Argo Group US which, inthe interim, is a position being filled by Mr. Watson.

At ACE Westchester, Mr. Levinson served as president of thenationwide casualty operations. He had been with ACE Westchesterfor the last nine years, joining in 2001 as senior vice presidentof casualty. He was appointed to the position of president of ACEWestchester in 2005.

Prior to working at ACE, Mr. Levinson served in senior sales andmarketing roles with Fireman's Fund Insurance Company and ChubbGroup of Insurance Companies.

Argo Group's E&S unit offers coverage for a broad range ofrisks that fall outside of the standard insurance market'sappetite. Product lines offered include binding authority,brokerage property and casualty, primary general liability, excessand umbrella coverage, health care, social services, professionalliability, and environmental risks. The products are offeredthrough a nationwide network of appointed specialty agents andbrokers.

Argo Group International Holdings, Ltd. is an internationalunderwriter of specialty insurance and reinsurance products, withLloyd's and Bermuda operations outside the United States.