Everest Insurance, the insurance division of Bermudian-based Everest Group Ltd, has appointed Stephen Buonpane to lead the company’s US Wholesale and Programs business.

He will report to Bill Hazelton, executive vice-president of Everest Insurance and president of North America Insurance.

The company said Mr Buonpane’s appointment underscored Everest’s commitment to the growth of its wholesale business, recently established as a stand alone division to support wholesale brokers with exclusive access to Everest’s customised offerings.

Mr Buonpane’s appointment followed his previous position as head of Everest’s Casualty Lines and Industry Practices business.

Danielle Stewart has been named chief operating officer, reporting to Mr Buonpane.

She serves as national head of Wholesale Distribution for Everest Insurance and was previously director of business strategy at Liberty Mutual where she led a variety of strategic initiatives for the company’s Primary Casualty E & S portfolio.

In addition, Everest Insurance has appointed Brian Zink as senior vice-president, head of Everest Specialty Underwriters and US Financial Lines, reporting to Mr Hazelton.

Mr Zink joins Everest from Zurich where he was head of Financial Lines for the company’s US national accounts, also serving in various leadership roles including head of Management Liability domestically.