Everest appoints head of A&H for North America

Everest Re has announced that Shawn Austin will join the company as senior vice president, head of accident and health (A&H) for North America, effective 24 October. He will be based in New York and report directly to Jim Williamson, Everest Group chief operating officer and head of reinsurance.

“Shawn is the most recent example of our deep investment in best-in-class talent at Everest,” said Williamson. “Shawn’s strong leadership skills and demonstrated track record building new businesses enable us to capitalise on increased market demand for innovative accident and health solutions.”

Prior to joining Everest, Austin served as head of AIG’s North American A&H business where he oversaw the entire portfolio. Austin held various leadership roles of increasing responsibility, including senior positions at Liberty Mutual, most recently serving as senior vice president leading the distribution and marketing of the company’s start-up global A&H business.

Austin succeeds Everest Reinsurance veteran Lou Monteagudo, who will be retiring in December after 26 years with the company.

Williamson said: “On behalf of the company, I want to thank Lou for his leadership and contributions to the A&H business and wish him all the best in his retirement.”