Arch has announced the promotion of Brian First to President of Arch Insurance North America from Chief Underwriting Officer (CUO) of Programs, Property and Specialty.
In this newly created role, First will now have executive oversight over Arch Insurance’s business units and certain operations teams.
He will continue to report to Matt Shulman, CEO of Arch Insurance North America, who commented: “Brian First has been instrumental to our success over the past several years, and we’re all very excited to have him take on these expanded responsibilities.
“In addition to being an incredibly insightful underwriter, Brian is a well-rounded and respected leader who will help steer our organisation as we pursue our ambitious goals.”
First’s direct reports include: Catherine Kelly, EVP, Corporate Underwriting Services; John Rafferty, CUO, Financial, Professional & Programs; Rich Stock, CUO, Casualty & Surety; and Valerie Turpin, CUO, Property.
He has three decades of industry experience. He joined Arch in 2014 as Executive VP of P&C Programs and Alternative Markets, a role he held for almost nine years before being appointed CUO of Programs, P&C in 2018.
First has also held positions at SPARTA Insurance, Travelers/Discover Re and The Hartford Financial Services Group.
“I’m honored to step into the role of President of Arch Insurance North America,” First said. “I look forward to working with the rest of the leadership team — as well as our talented underwriting and operations teams — as we look to build our capabilities and continue to deliver on our brand promise of ‘Pursuing Better Together’ for our producers and partners.”
