XL Insurance yesterday announced the appointment of Gary Kaplan to the newly created position of executive vice-president and North America construction leader.

Mr. Kaplan will report to Dennis Kane, the company's Chief Executive of the North America P&C unit. He will be based in New York.

XL Insurance is the global insurance operation of Bermuda-based XL Capital.

Commenting on Mr. Kaplan's appointment, Mr. Kane said: "We are proud that XL Insurance continues to attract top talent such as a well-known industry leader like Gary.

"He arrives here at a very opportune time — a time when we are looking forward to align our industry-specific underwriting expertise with growth opportunities in our market."

Mr. Kaplan joins XL Insurance from Zurich North America Commercial where he served as president of its Construction Business Unit.

During 15 years with Zurich North America, he held several senior level positions in underwriting management, operational transformation, and strategic planning.

Mr. Kaplan's industry experience also includes energy, oil and chemical industry underwriting management positions with The Home Insurance Company and Industrial Risk Insurers. He is a certified Construction Risk Insurance Specialist (CRIS).

David Duclos, chief executive of XL's Insurance operations, said: "The risks associated with construction activity are often complex. Helping manage these complex industry risks is where XL Insurance earns its reputation for solid technical underwriting expertise."