Platinum Underwriters Holdings, Ltd. yesterday announced that James Krantz has been named executive vice-president and chief financial officer, effective June 1, pending approval of the Bermuda Department of Immigration.

Mr. Krantz currently serves as the Bermuda reinsurer's chief accounting officer and will succeed Joseph Fisher, who will leave the company to pursue other interests when his contract expires.

Michael Price, Platinum's president and chief executive officer, said: "Since joining us in Platinum's formative days, Jim has taken on increasing levels of responsibility over time. I am delighted to announce his promotion to chief financial officer."

Mr. Krantz, 47, has been an executive officer of Platinum since August 2006 and was senior vice-president, chief financial officer and treasurer of Platinum Underwriters Reinsurance, Inc. from March 2003 until August 2006.

Mr. Krantz has over 20 years of experience in the property and casualty insurance industry, including serving as chief financial officer of insurance subsidiaries of Underwriter Reinsurance Company. Mr. Krantz is a CPA and spent nine years in the insurance practice of KPMG, LLP.