Bermuda-based Endurance Specialty Holdings Ltd. yesterday announced the appointment of Joan deLemps as chief underwriting officer.

Ms deLemps will report to company president William Jewett. She is an accomplished underwriting executive, has more than 30 years experience in insurance and reinsurance, including the last seven years with Endurance.

Mr. Jewett said: "Joan's knowledge of the business, commitment to underwriting excellence, and deep understanding of the needs of our clients will prove to be invaluable as we further develop our specialty capabilities."

Ms deLemps began her career at Aetna Casualty & Surety prior to joining Swiss Reinsurance and subsequently Gerling Global Financial Products Inc. where she held various senior underwriting and management positions in the facultative, treaty and finite risk areas.

Ms deLemps joined Endurance in May 2003 and was appointed chief casualty officer for Endurance's Worldwide Reinsurance operation in February 2007.