ACE USA, the US-based retail operating division of the ACE Group of Companies, thas appointed Robert McCarty as senior vice president and regional executive officer for ACE USA's Western Region.

Mr. McCarty is a former Lieutenant Colonel with the US Marines and has more than 20 years experience within the insurance and reinsurance industry, most recently as South Coast Metro branch manager for American International Group

Based in Los Angeles, he will be responsible for setting and driving the overall strategic direction for ACE USA's Western Region, which encompasses Southern California, Arizona, Nevada, Colorado and Hawaii.

He also will oversee the regional production plan, distribution, product sales and marketing, producer management, customer segmentation initiatives and general operations.

Mr. McCarty will report to Joseph Clabby, president, ACE USA West.

"As regional executive, Bob serves as the primary point of contact for our clients and brokers in the region, providing local access to ACE's comprehensive array of products and services.

He also will work to broaden ACE's presence by reaching out to regional brokers, mid-size companies and smaller corporate clients in the region," said Mr. Clabby.

"Bob is an experienced insurance professional who has strong relationships with the region's brokers and understands the issues that brokers and risk managers face. He shares ACE's commitment to providing our West Coast brokers and clients with personalised attention, expert underwriting and customized insurance solutions."

Mr. McCarty has more than 20 years of experience in the insurance and reinsurance industries, including 12 years in the Los Angeles market.

Previous positions include senior roles with AIG, GE Employers Reinsurance and CNA Reinsurance.