Peter Wilson, president and COO of CNA Specialty, is retiring at the end of the year.

CNA Financial Corp. CEO Thomas F. Motamed says the company has determined “that the leadership of CNA Specialty is a Chicago-based position.”

Wilson, who joined CNA Specialty in 1992, “has deep roots in the East,” continues Motamed in a statement. Therefore, Wilson “decided to retire and pursue other East Coast-based opportunities.”

Taking over for Wilson is Mark Herman, who most recently served as CEO of Everest National Insurance Co., a part of the Everest Re Group. He starts in Chicago on Jan. 1.

CNA Specialty’s new leader has also held leadership roles with Chubb & Son, Ace, and Ariel Holdings, according to CNA.

Wilson is credited with leading “some of CNA’s most successful businesses,” says Motamed.

CNA’s Specialty Lines provides professional and management liability, financial and other specialized property and casualty insurance products and services, with positions in insurance and risk management solutions for aging services, nurses, dentists, architects & engineers, lawyers, accountants and real estate agents. Wilson was also responsible for CNA’s surety business, as well as its warranty and service-contract business.

“Throughout [Wilson’s] career, he brought to CNA a sharp focus on the customer, distinctive products and services, and strong producer relationships,” says Motamed. “This legacy will continue to serve us well.”