Nu Online News Service, August 20, 10:55 a.m. EDT

Hank Watkins, a veteran insurance brokerage executive, has been appointed as Lloyd's North America president, responsible for all operations in the U.S. and Canada, Lloyd's announced.

Mr. Watkins replaces Lori Ann Lowery, who announced her resignation in June. The operation he will oversee includes offices in New York, Kentucky, Illinois, Los Angeles, the Virgin Islands and Montreal.

Lloyd's said the new appointee most recently served as senior vice president, business development, with Preferred Concepts LLC, a privately held organization that specializes in providing agents and brokers with access to insurance programs and placements.

He will be based in New York City and will take his post Aug. 31.

Mr. Watkins has held a range of positions in the United States and Europe at global insurers and brokers, including Chubb & Son; Barney & Barney; Johnson & Higgins; Hilb Rogal & Hobbs; and Marsh, the corporation said.

Sue Langley, director of Lloyd's market operations and North America, said in a statement, "I am delighted that Hank is coming on board to lead our North American operations. He has over 28 years experience in the insurance industry, as both an underwriter and broker, and understands the opportunities and challenges that the industry faces in today's global marketplace."

She added that Mr. Watkins' "unique experience, fresh approach to the Lloyd's market and mix of skills will be invaluable as we seek to develop our presence and brand in the U.S. and Canada over the coming years."

Mr. Watkins said, "I'm excited to be joining an organization with the rich history and global presence of Lloyd's. The opportunity to work with experienced, enthusiastic teams on both sides of the Atlantic as we deliver the benefits of Lloyd's Strategic Plan to our North American business partners is one I'm looking forward to."

Mr. Watkins' predecessor Ms. Lowery joined Lloyd's in late April 2008. When she announced her resignation in June, she said she was leaving to achieve a better balance between her working life and her family in Texas (National Underwriter, 6/29/2009). Ms. Lowery took over for Wendy Baker, who left in January 2008.

Lloyd's said Mr. Watkins, a graduate of University of California, Berkeley, has the following employment history:

o In 2008 Mr. Watkins served as senior vice president, business development, with Preferred Concepts, LLC.

o 2007-2008 he was managing director, middle market leader, New York Metro Partnership with Marsh USA.

o In 2007 he was president, Hilb Rogal & Hobbs (HRH) of Connecticut and vice president, northeast regional director.

o From 1994-2002 he served as senior vice president, client executive, middle market & risk management, with Marsh & McLennan.

o From 1989-1994 Mr. Watkins was vice president, International Department, with Johnson & Higgins.

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