Allied World Assurance Company president and chief executive officer Scott Carmilani has been appointed chairman of the company's board, effective January 1, 2008.

Former chairman Michael Morrison will continue to serve as a director. Mr. Carmilani will remain in his roles as of president and CEO.

"I am both honoured and excited to have the opportunity to further serve Allied World as chairman of the board," Mr. Carmilani said yesterday. "I look forward to continuing the company's endeavour to create value for our shareholders, clients and employees within this capacity."

Mr. Carmilani became a director in September 2003 after joining Allied World as executive vice-president in February 2002. He was elected president and CEO in January 2004.

Allied also announced that Bart Friedman was appointed as the company's lead independent director effective January 1, 2008.